Sullivan Progress Plaza
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First shopping center in the US built, owned, and operated by African Americans. It was established in 1968 by Rev. Leon H. Sullivan, Zion Baptist Church members, and the local black community. Its success attracted national attention: It led President Nixon to fund the Progress Development Services Corporation to aid blacks nationwide with commercial development projects. It encouraged black capitalism, inspiring similar economic ventures.
Note: The above description was taken from the site's historical marker.
In The News
- Missing Public Art Work Of Progress Plaza Uncovered, Hidden City Philadelphia, March 27, 2019.
- Nation's first black-owned shopping center celebrates 50, Plan Philly, October 27, 2018.
- First black-owned shopping center gets historical marker, Philly dot com, September 15, 2016.
