Please sign this petition. It’s something I hold very near and dear to my heart.

I was born and raised in Chester, PA, and despite the city being 70% Black American, there was never much in the way of things that reflected that reality.

So today, I’m writing to request that the Mayor of Chester, PA grant Tut official language status, permanently raise the Black American Heritage Flag, and establish a Black American Heritage Flag Day.

Similar acts of cultural preservation and representation have been demonstrated on a much larger scale in states like Alaska, Minnesota, and in multiple major cities where the heritage of the residents is honored. I believe Chester—a city with a population that is approximately 70% Black American, a city that often doesn’t ask for much—deserves to have things that showcase our pride.

Tut language is a historical cryptolect developed by Black American ancestors during slavery as a means of coded communication and cultural preservation. It’s a unique language born on American soil, forged through struggle and resilience. Tutnese reflects a distinct cultural and historical narrative—one that is deeply connected to the Black American experience. It may not look like much to others, but it’s OURS!

Then we have the Black American Heritage Flag—designed in 1967 by Melvin Charles and Gleason T. Jackson—which is one of the most beautiful flags I’ve ever seen. I’m sure you would agree it deserves to be flown anywhere a Black American calls home, especially in a city where we make up the majority of the demographic. I’ve come to realize that pride often stems from visibility, acknowledgment, and tangible representation. This could be a meaningful step toward that end.

It would send a powerful message, affirming the significance of Black American history and our presence in this nation. We’re a people who created a language to survive in a hostile environment—and a flag to inspire pride and unity.

Given President Donald Trump’s clear lack of appreciation for Black American history and his recent actions taken toward against our legacy, I believe it’s time for us to reclaim the narrative. Just as many other leaders have championed policies that prioritize equity and inclusion, I ask that Mayor Roots extend that same commitment to the preservation and recognition of Black American heritage.

But this can only be accomplished if you rally behind this and show that you support this initiative. So please, please, please sign this petition and ask your loved ones to do the same. 

I want to restore a sense of pride back to my hometown.