PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) -- A state representative from Philadelphia is celebrating Women’s History Month by rolling out a series of virtual events in Germantown.
Rep. Darisha Parker wants to convey the message "198 Strong" as a way to empower and support the women and girls of District 198 in Germantown, a segment of the community that she says hasn’t always gotten the credit or attention they deserve.
"I think of women being the backbone of everything," Parker said. "We take care of everybody on a daily basis, and we leave ourselves on the back burner. So these are some roll-outs that can be some mind, body and soul for us all together."
Parker says women should be a support system for each other.
In targeting the mind, body and soul, these virtual events are meant to educate, empower and uplift -- with self-defense, health and wellness instruction.
"I’m looking to do some mental health Zooms, fitness Zooms and yoga Zooms," Parker said.
The goal is not only to celebrate women and their contributions, but to also change the perception of Germantown.
"No person is an island. If we, as women, can do some things collectively, together, it can change how people think about Germantown," Parker said.
Parker says she wants to change what people think Germantown is and understand the historical value of the neighborhood.