Citizen of the Week: Yvonne Hughes

A West Philly native turned a life-changing disability into a lifetime of advocacy, speaking up for Philadelphians in need — and encouraging others to speak up for themselves

By Lisa Bryant

Art for Change: A Grand and Gorgeous Abstraction

Odili Donald Odita draws on a unique combination of traditional African art, minimalism, and pop culture influences in his abstract paintings that respond to contemporary social issues. The latest in a series with Forman Arts Initiative

By RJ Rushmore

Listen: Ali Velshi on the Need for DEI in Medicine

The MSNBC anchor and Citizen Board member on why hospitals — and Congress — must address the health care crisis of Black Americans.

By Ali Velshi

A Healing Embrace

Homelessness can cut life expectancy by 20 years, in part because of health issues that particularly affect women. A new Project HOME safe haven offers women a place to heal

By Jessica Blatt Press

Sentences for the Sentenced

West Philly non-profit Books Through Bars has provided the incarcerated with books for more than 30 years. Now, with growing inaccessibility, its work is needed more than ever

By Norah Rami

12+ Women’s Spaces in Philadelphia

Where to find safe, fun, joyous and healthy activities by and for women on International Women’s Day and beyond

By Monica Constable

Who is Nicolas O’Rourke?

The freshman At-Large member of Philadelphia City Council is a member of the progressive Working Families Party — and a minister by trade. He’s giving the progressive response to President Biden’s State of the Union on March 7

By The Philadelphia Citizen Staff

A “Wake Up Call” on Guns

A District Attorney diversion program is offering a second chance to those with no prior convictions and whose only crime was having an unlicensed gun. It aims to work around a state law that treats Philadelphians more harshly than other Pennsylvanians

By Mensah M. Dean