Day Of Comfort Event hosted by The United Community Action Network (U-CAN)

The Souls Shot Portrait Project was honored to attend the Day Of Comfort Event hosted by The United Community Action Network (U-CAN), a community outreach organization founded by incarcerated citizens at SCI Phoenix, in collaboration with their external representatives. The event was planned to offer solace, comfort and fellowship to families and friends of victims of gun violence in Philadelphia.

The October 2 event took place in the lovely front lobby of the recently renovated MET Philadelphia. It was clear that much care and work had gone into the preparations to ensure a perfect day for everyone. Families were welcomed into a beautifully decorated space and were supported and entertained by many passionate and inspiring speakers, including City Council member Sharif Street and former State Representative Movita Johnson-Harrell. A comedian performed as did Cheris Wimes with a beautiful Praise Dance. A delicious buffet lunch helped everyone to relax and enjoy one another’s company. JoAnn Miles, board member of Souls Shot Portrait Project, represented the project and gave a brief presentation. This was followed by a moving testimonial from Sharon Hill, whose brother’s portrait was included in the first group of portraits exhibited in 2017-2018. She worked with artist and storyteller David I. Walker. Use the QR code to hear Sharon talk about her brother, Stephen.

Use the QR code to hear Sharon Hill talk about her brother, Stephen.

Stephen’s Grave. Landsdowne (top), Stephen’s end, 51st & Haverford

Portraits of Sharon Hill 

David I. Walker

Photographs, 14” x 11”, and audio 2017

The audience were very attentive and receptive and several people stopped by our table to learn more about our work. It was a wonderful event and did indeed seem to bring some comfort as well as enjoyment to the guests.