Roots of Resilience explores the many cultures that have helped shape the city. Artists were invited to design flags that tell stories of hope, strength, and community, honoring the journeys of those who made Philly their home. From textiles to digital art, these powerful designs will fly high at Spruce Street Harbor Park from May 22, 2026, to September 7, 2026.
About the Flag:
This flag features the phrase “A FAMILY SURVIVED TODAY” in white text on a black background. Inspired by Lucille Clifton’s poem Won’t You Celebrate With Me, the work honors the immigrant experience as an ongoing act of resilience and survival. By focusing on the word “Family,” the flag highlights the strength, support, and connection that help people endure and move forward each day. Its bold, high-contrast design turns the message into a powerful public statement of hope and perseverance.
About the Artist:
Ekene Ijeoma is a Nigerian-American conceptual artist and computational designer whose work explores social, political, and environmental systems. From 2019–2024, he founded and led the Poetic Justice Group at the MIT Media Lab, which used art to rethink ideas around social justice. He also founded Black Forest, a nationwide project that plants trees as living monuments. His work has been presented by organizations including the Museum of Modern Art, the Kennedy Center, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and the Contemporary Art Museum of St. Louis. He lives and works in New York City.
