African Diaspora

Share Philly’s African Diaspora Heritage

As the nation’s birthplace, Philadelphia has witnessed the evolution of Black History like few other cities. The reverends Richard Allen and Absalom Jones and businessmen William Still and Robert Purvis, set free roots deep in this city and helped countless people escape bondage. Opera artist Marian Anderson and Freedom Theatre founder John Allen, Jr. rank among the later generations that marked achievements in this city.

Today, more than 650,000 residents encompass the African Diaspora and represent about 45.4 percent of Philadelphians. Visitors help embrace their past and present heritage through ethnic shopping, delightful festivities, flavorful dining, and an array of interesting exhibits.