Philly Elmo has joined the Mummers celebrations this year in a new way, performing in front of City Hall for the first time. This event was broadcast to 95 countries, marking a significant moment for the group.
Tony Royster, the founder of Philly Elmo, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Since 2012, we’ve been trying to fit in with the Mummers. To finally be welcomed is amazing.”
Danza Tonantzin’s director, Pamela Plata, shared her mixed emotions about performing, especially considering the challenges faced by Mexican communities in America. Earlier this year, the cancellation of Philly’s 2025 Carnaval de Puebla due to ICE concerns impacted their chance to perform for large crowds. Olga Renteria, from the Carnaval committee, highlighted the importance of inclusion, stating, “It’s vital to show our community we belong to this big celebration.”
Jesa Stiglich, the first female president of Golden Sunrise, noted how natural the partnership feels. “We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusion,” she said. “We want everyone to feel welcome to join us.” She believes that the Mummers Parade is becoming more inclusive, and they’re excited to be part of this change.
Recent surveys show that 74% of Americans support cultural events that promote diversity. This reflects a broader trend of communities seeking to embrace all backgrounds and foster connection.
Overall, the evolving nature of the Mummers Parade symbolizes not just tradition, but also the importance of community and acceptance in today’s society. The future looks bright as more groups like Philly Elmo and Danza Tonantzin take center stage in these beloved celebrations.
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mummers parade,new year’s day
