Key Takeaways
- Philly Elmo and Danza Tonantzin performed at the Mummers Parade in front of City Hall for the first time
- The performance marked a significant milestone in the parade’s efforts to become more inclusive and diverse
- The participation of these groups sends a message of inclusion to their communities and showcases the city’s welcoming nature
- The Mummers Parade is becoming more diverse and inclusive, with Golden Sunrise leading the way as a club that values diversity and welcomes new members
- The performance was broadcast to 95 countries around the world, highlighting the city’s cultural celebrations to a global audience
Introduction to the Mummers Parade
The Mummers Parade is a beloved annual event in Philadelphia, featuring colorful costumes, lively music, and energetic performances. This year’s parade was particularly significant, as it marked the first time that Philly Elmo and Danza Tonantzin performed in front of City Hall, in front of cameras that broadcast the event to 95 countries around the world. For Tony Royster, the founder of Philly Elmo, this was a momentous occasion, as his group had previously only participated in the parades and parties on 2nd Street, also known as "Two Street." Royster expressed his gratitude and amazement at being welcomed into the Mummers community, saying, "Since 2012, we’ve just been like popping up to the Mummers and trying to get in where we fit in … but to actually be involved and being welcome to the club is just truly amazing and I’m so grateful."
The Significance of Inclusion
The participation of Philly Elmo and Danza Tonantzin in the Mummers Parade is a significant milestone in the event’s efforts to become more inclusive and diverse. For Pamela Plata, the director of Danza Tonantzin, the performance was an emotional experience, given the extraordinary pressures that Mexican communities across America have faced. The cancellation of Philly’s 2025 Carnaval de Puebla in April, due to concerns about ICE operations, had deprived the dance group of its regular opportunity to perform in front of tens of thousands of people. Plata’s interpreter and Carnaval de Puebla committee member, Olga Renteria, emphasized the importance of sending a message of inclusion to their community, saying, "It’s very important for us to send a message to our community that there is inclusion, we are part of this big celebration."
A Natural Partnership
The partnership between Golden Sunrise and Philly Elmo was a natural fit, according to Jesa Stiglich, the club’s first-ever female president. As a South Philly-based club, Golden Sunrise has a long history of welcoming diverse groups and individuals. Stiglich expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, "We are thrilled to have them and them as well. Being South Philly-based, it’s a partnership that just seems extremely natural." She also highlighted Golden Sunrise’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, saying, "We’re also very proud to be a club that is known for diversity, inclusion and being welcoming. Being a place where people are comfortable walking up and saying, ‘Hey, can we join?’ And we say, ‘Absolutely.’"
A New Era of Inclusivity
The Mummers Parade is undergoing a significant transformation, with a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Golden Sunrise is leading the way, with its welcoming approach and commitment to showcasing a wide range of performances and cultural traditions. Stiglich noted that the parade as a whole is becoming more inclusive, and that Golden Sunrise is proud to be at the forefront of this movement. As the parade continues to evolve and grow, it is likely that we will see even more diverse and exciting performances in the future. The participation of Philly Elmo and Danza Tonantzin is just the beginning, and their involvement is sure to inspire other groups to join in and be a part of this vibrant and dynamic celebration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the performance of Philly Elmo and Danza Tonantzin at the Mummers Parade marked a significant milestone in the event’s efforts to become more inclusive and diverse. The partnership between Golden Sunrise and these groups is a testament to the city’s welcoming nature and its commitment to showcasing a wide range of cultural traditions. As the parade continues to evolve and grow, it is likely that we will see even more exciting and diverse performances in the future. The message of inclusion and diversity that the Mummers Parade is sending to communities around the world is a powerful one, and it is sure to inspire and uplift audiences for years to come.