Who We Are

Our Heritage. Our Home.

We are the descendants of freed slaves, Maroons, and settlers who forged a unique culture in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Today, we carry that spirit forward in Pennsylvania.

Sierra Leonean community gathering

“We are a resilient people, rooted like the Cotton Tree, with branches reaching across the world but grounded in our shared history.”

The Creole Spirit

Our Journey

From Freetown to Pennsylvania

The Creole (Krio) people of Sierra Leone are the descendants of freed African American, West Indian, and Liberated African slaves who settled in the Western Area of Sierra Leone between the late 18th and mid-19th centuries.

Freetown became a beacon of freedom, education, and cultural synthesis. We developed our own rich language (Krio), distinctive architecture (Bod Ose), and a vibrant culture that blends African traditions with Western influences.

As members of the diaspora, the Creole Union Pennsylvania was formed to maintain this rich heritage far from home. We exist to ensure that our language is spoken, our history is taught, and our community remains united.

Founded in
2010
Active Members
500+

Our Leadership

Meet the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to keep our community united and our culture thriving.

  • Dr. Abigale Cole

    Dr. Abigale Cole

    President

    Guiding the Union with over 20 years of experience in community organizing and cultural preservation.

  • Samuel Macauley

    Samuel Macauley

    Vice President

    Focused on expanding our youth programs and educational partnerships across Pennsylvania.

  • Fatima Thomas

    Fatima Thomas

    Secretary & Events Coordinator

    The driving force behind our annual Heritage Month gala, community picnics, and cultural workshops.

Join Our Community

Ready to get involved?

Join the Creole Union Pennsylvania today. Help us preserve our heritage, build our community, and empower the next generation.