HONORING GLORIA

Gloria Casarez was born and raised in Philadelphia and was A founding member and community organizer of Empty the Shelters, a national housing rights and economic justice organization, AND the FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GALAEI. In 2008, Casarez was appointed as the city’s first Director of LGBT Affairs. In her role, Casarez led efforts around public safety, education, economic development, health and city services and civil rights. CASAREZ LOST HER BATTLE TO CANCER IN 2014.

I CREATED THIS MURAL IN HONOR OF GLORIA’S LEGACY. THE MURAL WAS CREATED WITH OVER 50 OF HER FRIENDS AND FAMILY AND SUPPORTED BY THE MURAL ARTS PROGRAM OF PHILADELPHIA. The circle surrounding Gloria’s portrait was inspired by Pima Mexican pottery from Chihuahua, Mexico where Gloria's ancestors are from. The circle then pans out to create an echo effect as a symbol of Gloria’s experiences reverberating out into the community where she worked. Around the circle is one of Gloria's quotes ‘Engage, Find Voice, Expand Your Community.