The Seven Principles 30-Min Activities
Day 1- Umoja (Unity) Activity
Read about the 1965 Girard College protests for desegregation in Philadelphia. Students write a paragraph about a time they worked with others to solve a problem or create change.
Historical Context Passage
In the 1960s, Girard College, a school in Philadelphia, refused to admit Black students. Local leaders like Cecil B. Moore led protests to demand change. For seven months, community members marched and united to fight for equal education. Their efforts helped end segregation at the school.
Writing Prompt
Write about a time when you worked with others to solve a problem or create change. How did working together make a difference?
The Seven Principles 30-Min Activities
Day 2- Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) Activity
Students read about Octavius Catto, a 19th-century Philadelphia activist, and then write an "I am" poem to celebrate their personal strengths and aspirations.
Historical Context Passage
Octavius Catto was a teacher and civil rights leader in Philadelphia who fought for voting rights and desegregation of public transportation. Despite many challenges, he remained determined to create a better future for his community.
Writing Prompt
Write a poem starting each line with "I am..." to express your strengths, goals, and what makes you unique.
The Seven Principles 30-Min Activities
Day 3- Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) Activity
Read about the MOVE organization’s efforts to build community in West Philadelphia. Students brainstorm ways to help their school or neighborhood and write a step-by-step plan.
Historical Context Passage
The MOVE organization, started in the 1970s in West Philadelphia, focused on helping their community by advocating for clean neighborhoods, education, and human rights. Their work reminded others of the power of collective responsibility.
Writing Prompt
Think about something in your school or neighborhood that could be improved. Write a step-by-step plan for how you and others can work together to make it better.
The Seven Principles 30-Min Activities
Day 4- Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) Activity
Students read about Black-owned businesses in Philadelphia, like Harriet’s Bookshop, and brainstorm their own business ideas, writing a short advertisement for their product or service.
Historical Context Passage
Harriet’s Bookshop in Philadelphia celebrates women authors, artists, and activists while supporting local businesses. It shows how a business can serve the community while honoring history and culture.
Writing Prompt
Imagine you are starting a business in Philadelphia to help your community. What product or service would you create? Write an advertisement explaining why people should support your business.
The Seven Principles 30-Min Activities
Day 5- Nia (Purpose) Activity
Students read about W.E.B. Du Bois’s The Philadelphia Negro and write their own vision statement about how they want to make Philadelphia a better place.
Historical Context Passage
In 1899, W.E.B. Du Bois published The Philadelphia Negro, a groundbreaking study of the city’s Black community. He highlighted both struggles and strengths, encouraging others to work toward equality and opportunity for all.
Writing Prompt
Write your vision for Philadelphia. What is your dream for the city, and how can you help make it a reality?
The Seven Principles 30-Min Activities
Day 6- Kuumba (Creativity) Activity
Students read about the Mural Arts Program in Philadelphia and design a mural for their school or neighborhood, describing it in writing.
Historical Context Passage
Philadelphia’s Mural Arts Program turns walls into art to inspire communities. These murals celebrate stories, history, and creativity, giving neighborhoods vibrant new life.
Writing Prompt
Imagine you are creating a mural for your school or neighborhood in Philadelphia. What images, words, or colors would you include to inspire others? Describe your mural in detail.
The Seven Principles 30-Min Activities
Day 7- Imani (Faith) Activity
Students read about Rosa Parks’s connection to Philadelphia through her visit to Girard College in 1965, and write an encouraging letter to someone who inspires them.
Historical Context Passage
In 1965, Rosa Parks visited Philadelphia to support protests at Girard College. She believed in justice and inspired others to fight for equal rights. Her faith in the power of community reminds us to believe in ourselves and our dreams.
Writing Prompt
Write a letter to someone who inspires you. Tell them how they’ve encouraged you to believe in yourself and your goals.