SDG #16 Unveiled at Project HOME Women of Change

By Yesh Khanna

As a part of its Sustainable Development Goals Campaign, the Global Philadelphia Association, along with The Harry and Catherine Halloran Family Foundation, unveiled an exquisite piece of public artwork celebrating the United Nations’ SDG #16 - Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The artwork featuring Thurgood Marshall - the U.S. Supreme Court's first African American justice - was created by Russell Craig, a self-taught Philadelphia-based artist.

The mural is located at Project HOME Women of Change in Center City. The unveiling ceremony took place outside of the building and was attended by numerous guests including Sheila Hess, Philadelphia City Representative, Jane Golden, President & CEO of Mural Arts, and Sister Mary Scullion, the co-founder of Project HOME.

The opening remarks were made by GPA’s Education Fellow Jeremy Goodman, acknowledging the mural’s sponsors and artist. Additionally, Hess spoke about the relevance of the mural in modern times.

Golden gave a passionate speech highlighting the importance of artists and their artworks in spreading social justice and change. 

“It’s examples like Thurgood that make me believe I can do more than I did”, said Craig. He shared his inspiring story and the key role Thurgood Marshall played in it. 

The event concluded with closing remarks from Robert McNeill, GPA’s Board Chair and Managing Partner of Deloitte, in which he elaborated upon the importance of Sustainable Development Goals in cities. The Harry and Catherine Halloran Foundation and GPA granted a check of $3,000 to Project HOME Women of Change, recognizing the institution’s importance in the support and upliftment of the homeless.

To view photos from the event, visit GPA's Flickr.