Aja Moon's Illuminated Legacy is a vibrant digital portrait gallery commissioned by Pepco for the newly built Mount Vernon Substation. This 600-square-foot mural celebrates the diverse individuals who have significantly impacted the Mount Vernon community and its surrounding neighborhoods. By immortalizing these figures on the substation fence, Moon aims to ignite community pride, foster unity, and inspire reflection on the city's rich cultural heritage.

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Each meticulously crafted digital portrait, displayed on custom, accordion-style aluminum panels, stands as a testament to the subject's impact. The mural's diverse cast of characters reflects the city's rich history and culture, honoring figures from various fields.

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From the world of architecture, we see Vinnie Ream and Appleton P. Clark. The visual arts are represented by Sam Gilliam and Sharon Farmer, while the performing arts are honored through Lillian Evanti, Chita Rivera, Jane Lang, Shirley Horn, and Flora Molton.

The literary world is celebrated through the inclusion of poets Langston Hughes, Dolores Kendrick, and E. Ethelbert Miller. The city's vibrant music scene is recognized through the figure of Chuck Brown.

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The mural also pays tribute to the significant contributions made in the fields of activism, education, and religion. Figures like Julius Hobson Sr., Charles Hamilton Houston, Frank Kameny, Mary Church Terrell, Mary McLeod Bethune, Peggy Cooper Cafritz, Patricia McGuire, Ching Chong Hung, Bishop Smallwood E. Williams, and Rev. Dr. William H. Jernagin are all featured.

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Additionally, the mural acknowledges the challenges and complexities of the city's history, recognizing the ongoing struggle for social justice and equity through the inclusion of figures like Jahkema Princess Hansen and Mary Treadwell.

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Illuminated Legacy is more than just a piece of public art; it's a testament to the power of art to inspire, connect, and commemorate. By honoring these influential individuals, the mural aims to inspire future generations to continue their legacy and strive for a better future. As viewers engage with the mural, they are invited to reflect on the city's rich history and diverse community.