Dear City Council Members,

For over 40 years, Mural Arts Philadelphia has been a vital part of this city’s identity. The power of public art goes far beyond what you see on walls. Programs reach into every corner of Philadelphia — including my own neighborhood — to create opportunities for connection, healing, and hope.

Mural Arts runs some of the city’s most effective and compassionate programs. Programs that directly address crises facing Philadelphia, including gun violence and homelessness. Through Restorative Justice, and Color Me Back, Mural Arts offers life-stabilizing work to justice-impacted Philadelphians, unhoused people, and youth.

The impact of City Funding speaks for itself:

• $2.7+ million in wages paid to program participants in the last 5 years through Color Me Back and Restorative Justice initiatives.

• 250+ artists employed annually, and workforce development programs for artists.

• 2,655+ Philadelphia students receiving art education classes and internship opportunities annually.

• 6% recidivism rate and 85% employment rate among Guild participants.

• 25,000+ citizens reached with projects and programs annually.

• Philly Voted Best City in America for Street Art by USA Today! Philadelphia’s reputation as the City of Murals brings in thousands of tourists and generates revenue in neighborhoods across the city.

Despite this, Mural Arts needs more than $3.7 million in FY26 to continue its work. I urge you to advocate for a funding increase of $1.5 million, bringing Mural Arts’ funding allocation to $5.2 million.

While progress has been made under Mayor Parker, Philadelphia continues to face complex challenges. Mural Arts is a proven leader in addressing public safety, poverty, and disconnection — meeting people where they are with creativity and compassion, and providing pathways to possibilities.

If you have questions or would like to hear more about the impact of these programs, I’d be happy to connect.

Sincerely,