Philadelphia, PA, May 30, 2026 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione joined Mayor Cherelle Parker, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, community leaders, family, and residents today for the official renaming of Wissinoming Park in honor of the late Margaret “Marge” Tartaglione, the longtime Philadelphia City Commissioner and trailblazing public servant whose legacy shaped generations.
The park will now officially be known as Margaret Tartaglione Park.
The ceremony celebrated the life and legacy of Marge Tartaglione, the first woman ever elected citywide in Philadelphia history, who served almost 40 years as City Commissioner and became known throughout the city for her toughness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to her community.
“Today is one of the most emotional and meaningful moments of my life,” Senator Tartaglione said. “My mother loved this neighborhood with her whole heart. Long before public service became about headlines or social media, she believed leadership meant showing up, rolling up your sleeves, and doing the work. Whether it was protecting voting rights, helping a constituent, or cleaning up this very park alongside her committee people, she led by example every single day.”
Senator Tartaglione reflected on her mother’s lasting influence both personally and professionally, noting that Marge Tartaglione paved the way for women in government during a time when politics was overwhelmingly dominated by men.
“She taught me that strength and compassion can exist side by side,” said Senator Tartaglione. “People often say they were lucky to have a mother who told them they could do anything. I was lucky enough to have a mother who showed me.”
Councilmember Lozada, who introduced the legislation authorizing the renaming, praised Marge Tartaglione’s enduring impact on Philadelphia and generations of public servants.
“Miss Marge came up in a political world where there were not many women, and she was a trailblazer and determined enough to open doors for others,” said Councilmember Lozada. “She was a straight shooter who ensured that elections were fair and that people had access to polling locations that met their needs. Operating out of her Oxford Circle home’s basement, she knew what was happening on the ground, and she made it easier for people in every neighborhood to exercise their civic responsibility and participate.”
Mayor Parker also joined the celebration and recognized Marge Tartaglione’s historic contributions to Philadelphia public life and civic engagement.
The renaming ensures that future generations visiting Margaret Tartaglione Park will remember a woman who dedicated her life to Philadelphia, believed deeply in community, and never stopped fighting for working families and neighborhoods across the city.
“On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank everyone who helped make this possible,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This honor means more to us than words can express.”
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