I am a Northeast Philadelphia resident and business owner, and would like to express my wholehearted support for the “Cities of Our Youth” mural at the Somerton Shopping Plaza (10833 Bustleton Avenue). Northeast Philadelphia is home to the majority of Philadelphia’s Russian speaking population.

This mural will not only give privilege to portray and share the Russian speaking community’s heritage in a deeper and insightful way, but will also reveal appreciation and gratitude for the welcoming Americans that fought for our right to immigrate, helped us upon arrival, and gave us a chance to call this wonderful city our home.

The “Cities of Our Youth” mural is a visual description of the history of the immigration of Russian speaking people to Philadelphia. It celebrates the Russian community’s contribution to the local culture as well as supports the passing of that heritage on to future generations. The mural will be a beautiful addition to our community and my hope is that other community members and leaders will support the Russian community spirit by helping to realize this wonderful project