From Philly and the Pa. suburbs to South Jersey and Delaware, what would you like WHYY News to cover? Let us know!
When community members came to Philadelphia’s Italian Market on an August weekend, their appetites weren’t just for food ⸺ they came hungry for knowledge, listening to stories of the immigrant workers who make up the market’s pay-what-you-wish tours that spotlight immigrant-focused light installations and public art.
The speciality tours and temporary art pieces were part of a free two-night community celebration titled, “Light Up The Market: Honoring the Workers of 9th Street.” The event was organized by Our Market Project, a community building and public art project dedicated to preserving the stories of the market’s workers, residents and small business owners.
Michelle Angela Ortiz, founder and lead artist of Our Market Project, said she hopes the installations encourage visitors to think about and celebrate the people who keep the space thriving.
“The market has always been more than a place to shop, it’s a place where generations of families have built livelihoods, traditions and community,” Ortiz said. “Through light, storytelling and public art, we’re honoring the workers whose dedication gives this place its heartbeat.”
‘Part of something bigger’
While the South 9th Street Curb Market is often referred to as the “Italian Market” because it was founded by an Italian immigrant, it’s home to a wide variety of immigrant communities and businesses. Cultures represented in the market include Italian, Mexican, Jewish, Black, Central American, Vietnamese and Irish, among others.
Repurposed produce scales showcase photos and interviews of the market’s community members. (Hannah Pajtis for WHYY)
Our Market Project’s tours look to spotlight the diverse work and histories of these immigrant groups. The tours are about two hours long and include storytelling and food sampling.
“Bringing these common themes and common stories in one space helps people understand that they are a part of something bigger than just the small stand that they’re at,” Ortiz said.
Our Market Project’s tours are operated through Beyond the Bell Tours, a Philadelphia tour company specializing in inclusive tours highlighting marginalized groups and their histories.
Joey Leroux, co-founder of Beyond the Bell, said the market tours are designed to educate Philadelphians who want to learn more about immigrant history and tourists who may be unfamiliar with the city and space.
“It’s important in this moment to look back and also to recognize the contributions that have been made to Philadelphia to make it the city that we love today,” Leroux said.