Defining Culture Stories

A Culture Story is more than just a moment in time—it is the heartbeat of Black history, tradition, and lived experience. Through the lens of Blackness, Black culture, and the Black community, Culture Stories capture the resilience, strength, and humanity that define the diaspora. These stories are passed down through generations, shaping identities, preserving traditions, and inspiring progress.

A Culture Story can be:

• A shared memory of family recipes passed down through generations.

• A musical legacy that connects past and present through jazz, hip-hop, gospel, and soul.

• A historical journey through the struggle for freedom, civil rights, and justice.

• A story of innovation in business, art, or technology from Black entrepreneurs and creatives.

• A tale of perseverance in the face of systemic barriers and oppression.

These stories are the foundation of Black resilience—each one adding to the larger narrative of survival, triumph, and empowerment. When we tell these stories, we affirm that Black history is American history and that the contributions of Black people are woven into the very fabric of this nation.

The Culture Stories Campaign celebrates these narratives by spotlighting Black culture, voices, and achievements. By sharing these experiences, we honor the past, inspire the present, and pave the way for future generations.

"All At Once" mural by J Ryan

This campaign is rooted in the mission of the Urban League of Philadelphia—to empower Black-Americans and other underserved communities to secure economic self-reliance, parity, power, and civil rights. Culture Stories reflects this mission by focusing on the real stories of the most in-need communities we serve, celebrating their resilience, culture, and contributions to the broader Black experience.

Through this initiative, we uplift the voices of those who are often unheard, providing a platform to share their history, challenges, and victories. These stories are a testament to the strength of Black communities and a reminder that true progress is only achieved when every voice is valued and every story is told.