Freedom Journeys

Introducing Freedom Journeys

Despite national efforts to whitewash the truth, we proudly launch Freedom Journeys—a bold storytelling initiative honoring 250 extraordinary African-American Philadelphians who have shaped this city and nation from 1776 to 2026.

In partnership with Renee Chenault Fattah and Love Now Media, this yearlong project will feature 250 audio and video stories, ensuring our contributions are front and center as America approaches its 250th birthday.

A Challenging Moment in History

These are deeply challenging times. Whether through mainstream news, social media, or our daily lived experiences, it’s hard not to feel the weight of uncertainty—especially for Black and Brown communities.

We are witnessing:

• Multiple threats to HBCUs

• Over 300,000 Black women’s jobs lost

• Erosion of protections in education, lending, and housing

• The erasure of Black history from schools and landmarks, even as monuments to white supremacy resurface

At WURD, we don’t just cover these issues—we live them. As independent Black media, standing at the intersection of journalism and community empowerment, we too are under attack. It is exhausting. It is frightening. And it is clarifying.

Looking Ahead

As the nation prepares to shine a spotlight on Philadelphia during the 250th anniversary of its founding, we have an opportunity to show what is possible beyond this current moment of crisis. WURD is committed to being an essential part of that future—celebrating our history, amplifying our voices, and fighting for the very soul of our democracy. As we continue to push forward, we invite the community to nominate an extraordinary African-American Philadelphian by filling out the form below.