Renaming of Diamond St. after Father Paul Washington

Posted by on May 29, 2007

For several months members of the Father Paul Washington Community Committee have been meeting to re-name Diamond Street from Broad to 33rd after the Reverend Father Paul Washington known by many as the Conscience of Philadelphia. Special thanks goes to Meldorn Shamlin, Gary Adams, Barbara Easley, Brother Odinga, Janus and Gabriel just to name a few. Unfortunately we were not able to meet our goal as Broad St. – 33rd Street was our target but small victories lead to larger ones if the appetite is there for change.

As many of you know, Father Paul’s heart and soul revolved around the needs of the downtrodden, the homeless and the needy. Father Paul opened his house and the Church of the Advocate to anyone and every group serious about social change. The Black Power Conference and the Panthers, Angela Davis, 21st & Norris and the Valley, Stokley Carmichael and SNIC, the ordination of women into the Episcopal priesthood, the Eritrean movement, South African movement and on and on and on. He sat on the MOVE Commission, went to Iran with Attorney General Ramsey Clark to negotiate the freeing of the hostages and so much more. So, on Saturday September 8th, rain date Sunday September 9th, we shall close the streets from 16th to 19th so that we can commemorate the dedication of this great soul. Come celebrate with us. We plan to have spirited speakers and joyful noise on this wonderful day of celebration………The Celebration of Life.

Please go to his web-site to view remarks made by many and if the spirit moves you, go on-line and make a comment yourself. The site is easy to navigate. The one thing that holds true to many that know Father Paul, people always have something positive to share about the life of this Godly soul.

So, Saturday September 8th and rain date, Sunday September 9th. I plan to see you there.

If additional infomation is needed you can contact, Kemah Washington – 484-432-1242 or Michael Washington – 484-680-0099

God bless and hope to see you there.

Stay tuned.