Established in 2004, the O.V. Catto Memorial Fund was created to oversee the commissioning of a memorial honoring the life and accomplishments of the 19th-century civil rights activist Octavius Valentine Catto. This memorial, located on the southwest corner of Philadelphia’s City Hall, has become part of the City of Philadelphia’s vast collection of public art and represents the first work of art solely dedicated to an African American.
Notable sculptor, Branly Cadet was chosen to create the memorial and his eloquent message, bold vision and noble design embraced the untold history and the persevering power of Octavius V. Catto. Mr. Cadet’s memorial, “A Quest For Parity”, is comprised of various sculptural elements including a 10-foot bronze sculpture of Octavius V. Catto. The memorial was unveiled and gifted to the City of Philadelphia on September 26, 2017.
In attendance were crowds of enthusiastic onlookers, including Catto descendants, overflowing into the street for this historic dedication ceremony honoring Octavius V. Catto. The memorial has become more than simply a tribute to an extraordinary individual. It has, in effect, become “ground zero” for peaceful prayer and thoughtful dialogue.
The O.V. Catto Memorial Fund continues its long-term purpose of broadening public awareness about the contributions of African Americans throughout American history, locally, regionally and nationally and the catalyst for revealing and interpreting this history through ongoing educational programming.
