About the Project 

In North Philadelphia’s Fairhill neighborhood, a new community mural brings the legacies of visionary Latinx cultural and community leaders to life. Philadelphia artist Danny Torres created a new artwork at Julia de Burgos Elementary School that depicts and honors the Latin Fiesta Pioneer Awardees: Jesse Bermudez, founder of the Asociacion de Musicos Latino Americanos; Diego Castellanos, producer of Puerto Rican Panorama; Aaron Lopez, founder and editor of El Hispano; Julia Lopez, founder of Flamenco Ole; Dr. Carmen Febo-San Miguel, director of Taller Puertorriqueño; and Alberto Ceberra, award-winning independent artist. Puerto Rican poet-activist Julia de Burgos—the elementary school’s namesake—is also depicted on the mural.

Latinx Heroes embraces the neighborhood’s cultural heritage through the school’s mission to enhance literacy and civic engagement. Through participatory events and paint days in the spring of 2017, the project deepened connections between students, community members, arts and culture institutions, and artists. The mural creates a welcoming entryway where a new generation can learn and grow.