An Invitation to Community: The Download Launch

October 16th was The Philly Download’s official launch event. It was more than just another party in Philly or a mere networking event. It represents a climate shift for the City.

As a person who is typically on the other side of these events, it's one thing to be invited to the party. It’s an entirely different thing to orchestrate the party. I’ve been a content creator in Philadelphia for over 11 years. In that time, I’ve been invited to my share of parties, launches, soirees and galas. While many are a good time, too many of those events felt surface level. A lot of times, we were Black faces in rooms that want us for our following or to give themselves validation for allowing Black folks in, but not to actually engage us, nor care about the stories we carry or the communities we represent. It's one thing to be invited to the dance, it's something different to be invited to dance.

Our event had to be different. And it was. It was so validating seeing a room that represents the diversity of the Black experience in Philadelphia. Seeing attendees’ faces as they emerged from elevators as Rickey The Violinist played to welcome them to the event felt surreal. Artists and activists danced to DJ HBK. Politicians and poets enjoyed the sweet potato chicken by Black Dragon. Rappers and reporters connected at high top tables. Established celebrities and brand new content creators enjoyed the October air on the roof top.

Our event was an invitation not just to the folks on the guest list but to Black Philadelphia as a whole. It was a call to community and connection. It was a welcoming to gather where our experiences are validated and where our personhood matters. It was an invite to where our stories matter, where who we are truly matters.

The Philly Download is where Black Philadelphians between the ages of 18-45 can come and see themselves, where our voices are centered, where our stories are amplified. May this launch be the propulsion to carry those stories and our community forward.