philly

I joined about 250 Philadelphians at Dilworth Plaza on the west side of City Hall for Homeless Memorial Day. Approximately 70 people who died on the streets in the last year were remembered.

There was a young drum troop playing right when I got there. I didn't catch their name.

Alicia Christian of Dignity Housing with some welcoming remarks.

The colors were posted by the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service and Education Center Color Guard. Approximately 25% of Philadelphia's homeless are veterans.

Sam Santiago, of Project H.O.M.E., said some words on homelessness which claims thousands of lives each year. The United States, which is often called the richest/best/most advanced nation in the world, should not have the numbers on the street that it does.

A wiiide shot of the colors in front of City Hall at dusk.

Taps was played, beautifully, during the roll call.

With each name called, a volunteer walked with a placard and formed concentric circles in front of the stage.

Sadly, I think I recognized a handful of names called out. I wasn't on a full name basis with all those I met last year, but some sounded more familiar than I would've liked to have heard called out that night.

As daylight waned and the longest night of the year started, candles of remembrance were lit by all. That's the Masonic Temple in the background.

Lynn Collins, of Project H.O.M.E., performed a praise dance remembering those who died and praising those who made it through and all those who have helped along the way.

Sister Mary Scullion, one of the co-founders of Project H.O.M.E., spoke after the dance starting off the "HEAL" portion of the night. She offered words of inspiration for all those in attendance and for those who have tirelessly been working to keep on doing so. She, along with others, was featured in last month's Philadelphia Magazine's Good. issue.

The Salvation Army was present providing hot coffee to everyone.

I stupidly forgot my notebook on the way out the door so no notes to report. Sorry. But consider the 17 photos above my 17,000 word story. Unfortunately, I didn't see a story in the Inquirer nor the Daily News. But The Next American City was there. A full listing of coverage from across the country as this was a national event can be found here: other coverage.

I'll head over to Arch Street United Methodist Church in the next hour or so to work at the Grace Cafe which I mentioned in this post.

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