06/25/2026
Cherry Hill History and Cinema Combine for Special Celebration in South Baltimore!
“We cannot escape our origins, however hard we try, those origins which contain the key -could we but find it- to all we later become.”
― James Baldwin, Notes of a Native Son
On Sunday, June 28, 2026, the Youth Resiliency Institute (YRI) will host a special celebration at scenic Middle Branch Park in South Baltimore, MD. (This new event date has been rescheduled from a previous date). This day-long event will feature a museum-style exhibition in the Boathouse of Middle Branch Park curated by the Youth Resiliency Institute, honoring the self-determination of Cherry Hill’s pioneering Black families. Additionally, attendees can enjoy an outdoor waterfront screening of the award-winning film “Sr” directed and written by former Cherry Hill Homes public housing resident Toroes Thomas. A panel discussion will take place immediately following the screening.
The Youth Resiliency Institute's celebration recognizes that the pursuit of freedom, justice, and historical truth extends far beyond a single day. This event coincides with two significant milestones: the 80th anniversary of the dedication of Cherry Hill Homes and the 100th anniversary of the movement that gave rise to Black History Month. Together, these anniversaries remind us that the stories of Black resilience, achievement, and community building must be honored year-round. This special event affirms the importance of preserving the history of communities like Cherry Hill while continuing the century-long effort to ensure that Black history is recognized as an essential part of the American story particularly at a time when Black history and public memory face erasure nationwide.
This special celebration will also honor Mr. Moses Hammett, Principal Consultant at Hammett Solutions, LLC, in recognition of his decades of dedicated service. His efforts have empowered individuals, families, and communities through initiatives focused on responsible fatherhood, re-entry services, and more.
Throughout the event, there will be children's activities, live music, and food trucks, all contributing to a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere along South Baltimore’s waterfront.
This celebration is sponsored by the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership in collaboration with Reimagine Middle Branch and Baltimore City Recreation and Parks. For additional information, please refer to the accompanying flyer.
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