CECIL B. MOORE PHILADELPHIA FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Cecil B. Moore Philadelphia Freedom Fighters is a mural that honors the unsung heroes of the 1960s Philadelphia civil rights movement—especially the women and young activists who fought for justice alongside their namesake, Cecil B. Moore. Created by artists Felix St. Fort and Gabe Tiberino, this mural celebrates the spirit of youth activism that led to the desegregation of Girard College in 1965, a hard-fought victory won by teenagers and young adults determined to create change.

This mural bridges the past and present, connecting today’s youth with the power of civil rights activism and voter registration efforts from over 50 years ago. A blend of portraits and graphic elements, including Adinkra symbols, infuses the artwork with cultural and historical depth. These symbols, originating from West Africa (modern-day Ghana), carry deep meanings, reflecting the core values of the Freedom Fighters’ mission: Knowledge, Unity, Perseverance, Power of Love, Fortitude, Service, Democracy, Justice, Excellence, and Encouragement.

To foster community engagement, mural kits featuring paint-by-numbers Adinkra symbols were distributed to local public schools and neighborhood partners. Each kit contained a symbol printed on parachute cloth, along with paintbrushes and colors, allowing community members to contribute to the mural despite the challenges of social distancing.

This project was completed with the assistance of Athena Astraea, Marcus Hines, and Malachi Floyd.

The Cecil B. Moore Philadelphia Freedom Fighters mural is a tribute to the past and a call to action for the future—a reminder that young voices shape history and that the fight for justice continues.