Norris Homes History Exhibit, Live Music Performance and Community Meeting on Martin Luther King Day 2026

A display of materials from Norris Homes history will be on display, including photos from the community over the years and historic documents and objects at the old Community Center.

There will be a community meeting for Norris Homes residents only where information will be shared about how the Charles Blockson Collection can ensure that this history is cared for and not lost. Followed by a question and answer session . There will be forms for community members to fill out to state if they would prefer that their image not be included in the collection. 

Before the community meeting enjoy a special live music performance made possible by Outsiders Improvised & Creative Music Series, internationally acclaimed bassist Jamaaladeen Tacuma returns to Norris Homes Recreation Center—his childhood home stomping grounds to perform "The Dream Then & Now," a seven-movement composition originally commissioned by WXPN in 1989.  This profound work, blending jazz and classical traditions in tribute to Dr. King, was performed live only once in Philadelphia 37 years ago and has remained unheard by live audience ever since.

Please note this is small limited capacity venue, Norris Homes Residents will have priority entry & seating. 

📅 Monday, January 19, 2026  3:00 pm Doors open to the general public & welcome greetings 3:30-4 pm Live music performance  4pm Norris Homes Residents only community meeting . 

📍 (Old) Norris Homes Community Center , 11th Ave & Berks St. on NE corner, Philadelphia, PA . 

🎵 Featuring:  Jamaaladeen Tacuma Bass Guitar, Bob Mack Guitar, Owen Valentine & Urban Classique String Quartet, Lawerence “Weas” Newton narration . 

This is a FREE event . 

Let's keep the Dream alive.