Photo from girlsleadershipcamp.org

The upcoming Sojourner Truth Walk in West Philadelphia is more than just a 5K; it’s a celebration of community resilience and girls’ and women’s leadership and activism. Scheduled for Saturday, May 2, the 13th annual event organized by Camp Sojourner will center on the theme “We The People… Build Sanctuary.”

This year, the walk honors Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for her dedicated advocacy. Gauthier is being recognized for her efforts to bolster environmental protections and immigrant rights, reinforcing Philadelphia’s commitment as a Sanctuary City.

The walkathon serves as a fundraiser for Camp Sojourner/Girls’ Leadership Camp, providing affordable summer camp experiences and year-round leadership programming for Philadelphia girls/youth ages 8–17.

Participants are encouraged to walk in honor of a “sanctuary” in their own lives—whether a person or a place. These honorees will be celebrated through a large-scale wall projection at the start of the walk and featured on signs carried by the walkers.

“In this political moment, when so many groups are being targeted and many of our institutions feel unstable, it is vital to come together and celebrate the ways we build sanctuary for each other, while honoring the leadership of people who work for justice,” said Alisha Berry, Director of Camp Sojourner.

The 5K route begins and ends at the Calvary Center (48th and Baltimore Ave). The day’s itinerary includes:

• 10 a.m.: Onsite registration opens.

• 10:30 a.m.: Warm-ups and live performances.

• 11 a.m.: The walk officially commences.

• 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.: Finish-line celebration featuring speakers, family activities, and local justice organizations.

The event is supported by a wide array of community partners, including ArtWell, the Gender Justice Fund, and the Energy Justice Network. As 14-year-old camper Layia puts it, the event is a powerful reminder of what happens when “young women and other people stick together.”

Registration is currently open online.

For more information or to register or donate online, visit the official Girls’ Leadership Camp website.