The Great Migration: A City Transformed (1916-1930), a series of audio and video works that celebrate the historic tide of African Americans to the North, is now coming to your neighborhood. Hosted by community partners, the screenings will take place throughout the fall at libraries, rec centers and schools across the Philadelphia region.

ABOUT THE FILMS

When We Came Up Here – dir. Tina Morton (Documentary, 2016, 12 min)

Morton, a Scribe alumni, explores how The Philadelphia Tribune played an important role in helping migrants navigate their new home.

Christian Street YMCA: Sharing Our History (Documentary, 2016, 9 min)

This profile of the Christian Street YMCA, a hub for the African American community, captures experiences of The Great Migration through the stories of long-time members. 

Black Star Rising: The Universal Negro Improvement Association in Philadelphia – dir. members of UNIA Thomas Harvey Division 121 (Documentary, 2016, about 10 min)

Following the rise of UNIA in the 20th century, the film shows how recent migrants were attracted by its mission of economic self-improvement. 

William Penn High School: The Story of the Great School’s Promise – by members of the William Penn Development Coalition  (Documentary, 2016, 9 min)

This film is an inside look at how William Penn High School provides a well-rounded education to its students. 

John Coltrane House: Giant Steps of Philadelphia – by John Coltrane House Film Committee (Documentary, 2016, about 10 min)

A group of local activists explore how jazz legend John Coltrane’s former home in Strawberry Mansion represents a significant cultural asset. 

The Great Migration: A City Transformed (1916-1930) is supported by the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. Additional support is provided by the Lincoln Financial Foundation, Hamilton Family Foundation, and Department of History of Art, Department of Africana Studies, and Center for Africana Studies, University of Pennsylvania.