Celebrating Notable Members of Philadelphia's Black Community
The Leaders and Legends of Philadelphia exhibit celebrates notable members of Philadelphia's Black community. For the month of February, the free and public exhibit provides an entry point for family discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion as it uplifts and affirms the achievements of remarkable Philadelphia individuals. The exhibit offers an example for children that can both inspire and encourage them to see in themselves a path to achievement.
The exhibit features displays for each honoree featuring biographical information, kid friendly facts, and information about related Philadelphia landmarks, activities, and recommended reading for future exploration. It is installed on Smith’s beautiful 6.5-acre facility providing free, outdoor viewing for visitors both young and old.
2025 Honorees
- Mayor Michael Nutter (civic leader)
- Michael Burch (education advocate)
- Mo’ne Davis (trailblazing athlete)
- Nazeer Sabree (youth activist)
- Patty Jackson (radio icon)
- Quinta Brunson (comedy powerhouse)
- Richard Koilors and Mengistu/Two Locals Brewing (craft brewers)
- Sharmain Matlock-Turner (community builder)
- Tiffani Dean (storyteller extraordinaire)
- William Still* (freedom fighter)
*denotes deceased
2025 Honorees of Smith Memorial Playground
Past Leaders & Legends Honorees
Asim Richards
Caleb Jones and Andre Wright/Give and Go Athletics
DJ Jazzy Jeff
Dr. Ala Stanford
Dr. Constance E. Clayton
Ed Bradley
Ethel Allen
Floyd Alston
Henry Ossawa Tanner
Hiliary Holloway
Jill Scott
Joan Myers Brown
Joe Frazier
John Chaney
John Coltrane
Juanita Kidd Stout
Julian Abele
Ken Frazier
Khalid Mumin
Kyle Lowry
Linda Cliatt-Wayman
Marcel Pratt
Marian Anderson
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker
Natasha Brown
Octavius Catto
Otis Hackney
Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta
Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan
Robert Bogle
Ryan Boyer
Sady and Raymond Alexander
Sozi Pedro Tulante
Tina Sloane Green
Tonetta Graham
Trudy Haynes
Vashti DuBois
Wills Tom
Wilt Chamberlain
