April 7, 2023 / St. Louis, Missouri – YWCA Metro St. Louis will reveal the results of an extensive renovation on its historic Phyllis Wheatley Branch – now the Phyllis Wheatley Heritage Center – at a ribbon-cutting and re-dedication on Thursday, April 13 at 3pm at 2711 Locust Street.
- The Historic Phyllis Wheatley Branch of YWCA was the central meeting place for the African American community in St. Louis during the time of segregation.
- Originally located in Mill Creek Valley, the Phyllis Wheatley Branch was formed in 1911 to serve African American women and girls. The Branch moved to Locust Avenue in 1941.
- The national YWCA organization singled out St. Louis as a model for integration in 1947 – well before the civil rights movement.
- Please join YWCA Metro St. Louis, along with local, state and national dignitaries as we celebrate the re-dedication of the Phyllis Wheatley Heritage Center and honor the esteemed members of the Phyllis Wheatley Committee on Administration (COA) – the only functioning COA in the United States.
- This renovation marks a significant investment in the Locust Business District, and YWCA is thrilled to reopen the Heritage Center to the community as a premier event venue. Proceeds from events will support the programs and services of YWCA.
WHAT: Ribbon-Cutting and Re-dedication Celebration
WHERE: Phyllis Wheatley Heritage Center, 2711 Locust Street, St. Louis MO, 63103
WHEN: Thursday, April 13
3pm: Ribbon Cutting & Remarks, Reception follows
HOSTS & DISTINGUISHED GUESTS:
Dr. Cheryl Watkins, MBA, President & Chief Executive Officer, YWCA
U.S. Congresswoman Cori Bush
Missouri Senator Brian Williams
LaKeySha Bosley, State Representative of MO House District 79
Dr. Vernon Mitchell, Mayor’s Chief Equity Officer
Honorable Anne-Marie Clarke
Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson
Dr. Vernon Mitchell, Mayor’s Chief Equity Office
More information about the venue
