February 2026
Progress Trust, Inc. and DiasporaDNA Story Center Present the “Meeting of the Griots”
February 2026 marks the centennial celebration of Black History Month. The theme is: “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”
Philadelphia, PA – (February 9, 2026) – Progress Trust, Inc. (PTI), in partnership with DiasporaDNA Story Center proudly announces the Meeting of the Griots Exhibition, a vibrant, intergenerational celebration of Black history, culture, and storytelling in honor of the 100-year anniversary of Black History Month. This free, family-friendly event, featuring the Montgomery Collection's Traveling African American Pop-Up Museum, will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM at the North Philadelphia Welcome Center, located in the historic Sullivan Progress Plaza on North Broad Street. Sullivan Progress Plaza, founded by Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan in 1968, headquartered in North Philadelphia, is the first shopping center in the United States, built, developed, continuously owned, and managed by African Americans.
The Meeting of the Griots Exhibition revives the African griot tradition, where master storytellers preserve heritage, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations. Attendees will gather in a space created for us and by us to connect with modern griots – community leaders who are actively shaping and safeguarding Black history today.
The featured modern griots will include Mable Ellis Welborn, Board Chair, Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust; Nile Livingston, founder of Creative Repute and a celebrated Mural Arts Philadelphia muralist; Mike Dennis, founder of Reelblack and an award-winning filmmaker; Tyrone Reed, President, Committee for a Better North Philadelphia; and Monica O. Montgomery, founder and President of DiasporaDNA Story Center, curator of The Montgomery Collection. Our local musical performances will feature the Tyehimba African Drum and Dance Ensemble, as well as Dr. Lovett Hines and the Junior Legacy Ensemble.
"Philadelphia is keeping living Black history in Black hands. We invite you to join us to connect with today's modern griots in a space that honors the past while creating new memories together,” said DiasporaDNA curator Monica O. Montgomery.
The exhibition highlights include Vibrant African drumming to set the rhythmic heartbeat of the day. Hands-on family creativity with the 'Broad Street Memories' Paint & Sip – a make-and-take art experience that includes lunch. Exploration of the Montgomery Collection's Traveling African American Pop-Up Museum, featuring rare archival artifacts such as vintage photographs, letters, album covers, and more that bring Black history to life. Captivating griot storytelling and performances, a special keynote address, community tabletop exhibits, and interactive opportunities to share personal memories for a future creative display.
Meeting of the Griots Exhibition is free and open to all, but registration is required. However, there is a minimal cost for the Paint & Sip lunch ticket. RSVP today at our event page:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meeting-of-the-griots-tickets-1981382238613
About Progress Trust, Inc.
Progress Trust, Inc. (PTI) founded in 1999, is a nonprofit community redevelopment company dedicated to revitalizing our historic African American communities, empowering individuals, and enriching the futures of those we serve, headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Our mission is to breathe new life into equity seeking communities, transforming neglected areas, and fostering cultural and economic renewal. PTI turns commerce into community and brings community to commerce. For further information visit, www.progresstrustinc.org.
About DiasporaDNA
DiasporaDNA Story Center is a cultural hub dedicated to exploring origin stories, collective memories, and the art, history, and lives of the global majority through archives, exhibits, events, and storytelling. Together, they amplify Black heritage and community resilience. For further information visit, www.diasporadna.org.