West Powelton Steppers Celebrate 35 Years

Philadelphia News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jun 27, 2026 · 1m

For thirty-five years, the West Powelton Steppers and Drum Squad have turned rain-soaked streets into dance floors and block parties into community celebrations, giving Philly youth a powerful, positive outlet when schools cut arts programs. Started in 1991 by Antoine Mapp’s grandmother with just a few kids, the squad now boasts 43 members who’ve turned into family — offering friendship, purpose, and life-changing travel opportunities. At 19, Tatyana Mapp credits the team with shielding her from negativity and helping her find her people. The city honored them by renaming a block of Powelton…