The 1200 block of Chestnut Street was officially declared Michael S. Hinson, Jr. Way during a ceremony on June 19.
The new street sign honors the life and legacy of Michael Hinson, a Black LGBTQ+ leader who is known as a “history maker,” remembered for his persistent and innovative approaches to advocacy and activism. His work paid special attention to LGBTQ+ people of color, the HIV/AIDS community and unhoused people.
Hinson’s and other queer-specific street signs in the city help to demarcate the Gayborhood, honoring LGBTQ+ historical figures who have made a difference for Philadelphia.
Approximately 150 people — including prominent activists, nonprofit leaders and government officials — gathered at the corner of Chestnut and 12th streets to celebrate Hinson.
The ceremony opened with the traditional Yoruba practice of pouring libations to pay homage to ancestors followed by sacred drumming and singing.
“Feel him because he’s present in spirit,” said Rev. Jeffery Haskins, who offered an additional blessing over the space, said about Hinson. “Feel him because whatever he imparted on each one of us is present today.”
“Just do like Michael did,” he added. “Just treat everybody right.”
Music and the arts was a strong component of the event. Those gathered sang the Black National Anthem. People raised their hands, clapped and swayed as a member of Hinson’s chosen family, Desiree Neal, belted out a soulful rendition of “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” adding the line “Sail on, Mike,” to the lyrics. She also performed Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On.”
“He laid the foundation for me to love all people,” Neal said about Hinson’s influence on her approach to social work — which she said requires people to care for all who need support and to do so without picking and choosing who they want to help.
Speakers continually cited Hinson’s countless contributions to the betterment of Philadelphia and the ways in which he and his work helped others find community, affirmation and opportunities.
Sen. Sharif Street explained that Hinson broke down barriers between communities — particularly connecting the LGBTQ+ community and the Black community.
“He challenged both communities to look at their more whole self,” said Street, who said Hinson helped people face the discrimination and biases that existed within both spaces. “He said that he was authentically Black and authentically gay and he wasn’t going to choose between what parts of his identity he could identify with.”
“He made us better,” Street underlined.
A recording of Hinson’s poem “1 in 3” was played. Attendees listened as the recording played Hinson’s voice reciting the stanzas, which reflected on experiences of young, Black men who live with HIV.
“One in three of young Black, gay men — already classified as an endangered species some would say — didn’t believe something so devastating and debilitating would come their way,” the recording played.
Jacen Bowman, vice president of Philly Black Pride, explained that Hinson was a strong supporter of youth. He introduced three up-and-coming performers who took to the stage to vogue in colorful, sparkling costumes.
The block that now displays Hinson’s name is the site where he founded SELF, Inc., an emergency housing provider, and previously led Colours, a magazine turned wellness and advocacy organization that specifically serves LGBTQ+ people of color.
Christopher D. Weaver and Dr. Andre Ford, the executive editor and executive director of Colours, respectively, unveiled the cover of the magazine’s forthcoming December edition, which will be dedicated to Hinson. It will feature stories, photos and art in commemoration of the activist.
Passersby often stopped to listen to speakers or watch a performance from the sidewalk.
City councilmember Mark Squilla, who introduced the resolution to recognize Hinson with this street sign — which passed unanimously — thanked those who helped to make it possible.
“Michael Hinson stood for all of us — not just the LGBTQ+ community,” he said, noting that all of the city’s leaders stand on the shoulders of Hinson and his accomplishments.
“I know that Michael planted seeds throughout the city that will just continue to grow,” added Councilmember Rue Landau — noting that his legacy is not simply a list of his own achievements but includes the impact of empowering others to develop their own leadership skills.
Celena Morrison-McLean, the city’s executive director of the Office of LGBT Affairs — a function in which Hinson served under Mayor John Street — called Hinson’s leadership transformative and pioneering.
“His work created critical pathways for marginalized communities, addressing issues of systemic inequality and fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding,” she said. “Hinson didn’t open doors. He built entirely new doorways.”
“He’s the reason why I’m here,” she added.