State Senator Hayes, Councilwoman Porter Join Urban League Chair and Community Leaders for Remarks and Block Party
Anniversary Renews Efforts to Empower Black Baltimoreans
Today, Baltimore leaders and community members gathered at the historic Orchard Street United Methodist Church to begin the centennial celebrations for the Greater Baltimore Urban League (GBUL).
Established in 1924, GBUL has been a reliable regional advocate and stands as one of the oldest affiliates in the country, leaving an indelible mark on communities across the Greater Baltimore region. GBUL has provided impactful services to thousands of program participants.
Today marks the launch of GBUL’s 100th anniversary campaign, “A Century of Impact, A Future of Promise.” The campaign will include a series of special community and educational events, such as a GBUL-led senatorial debate, a Black business trade mission, a signature golf tournament, and conclude with a grand gala celebration in November 2024. The campaign will also highlight local, state, and national leaders who have championed empowerment for Black communities in the city. Additionally, it will introduce the Centennial Honor Circle, featuring the most influential civic, corporate, and philanthropic leaders in the greater Baltimore region.
Ricky Smith, Board Chair, GBUL: “We have achieved so much in these past 100 years, but we understand that the quantity of our years of service does not fully measure our impact. The Urban League has been at the forefront of every meaningful push for advancement and equity for the African American community, and we are more energized and passionate than ever to continue our work. We know that there is still much to be done to empower and advance our communities and families, and today represents our commitment for the next one hundred years.”
Antonio Hayes, State Senator: “The GBUL is an indispensable partner for the city and the state. We honor their one hundred years of dynamic service on behalf of the underserved and under-represented amongst us. I look forward to all the great things on the horizon for the Urban League and am proud to stand with them on this day of celebration”.
Phylicia Porter, Baltimore City Councilwoman: “We celebrate the Urban League for all that it has accomplished in Baltimore and beyond over these one hundred years. There is no stronger or more consistent ally in the fight for justice and equality for Black people. Today is a great day as we honor the leaders and visionaries who have done so much for so many.”
Faith Leach, Baltimore City Administrator: “Today is a seminal moment for our Baltimore as we honor the GBUL for a century of transformative advocacy in our community. We are excited about the future of the GBUL and the progress we will realize working together to enact an agenda that empowers and inspires generations to come”.
During his remarks today, Board Chair Ricky Smith discussed the work that GBUL has done over the past 100 years, from its work as the economic engine of the civil rights movement to steering Baltimore’s most vulnerable communities through the Freddie Gray uprising. Next month, GBUL will release a comprehensive strategic plan ‘Legacy Reimagined’ designed to introduce a renewed commitment to economic and social empowerment. Smith discussed this path forward, which includes new efforts in four key areas:
Influence Public Policy
Enhance Organizational Viability
Promote Community
Advance Wealth Creation
To stay up-to-date on GBUL’s centennial events join the conversation on social by including #GBUL100.
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