News
Meet the Real Underdogs of Philly
A small but mighty all-volunteer nonprofit helps Philadelphia dogs who live outdoors
Three Years After October 7, Where Are We?
The Hamas attacks on Israel have led to war, devastation and political fallout from the Middle East to PA. A former U.S. Congressperson and veteran lays out a path to durable peace
Anti-Vax is Not Pro-Religion
CHOP’s esteemed immunologist steps into the debate over vaccines and religious freedom, and asks: What would Jesus do?
Can We Save The Last Wilderness in Philadelphia?
Upper Roxborough is the last rural corner of Philadelphia, a place where forests and fields reign. Squeezed by development and climate change, how much longer can it last?
Putting Parker’s H.O.M.E. Plan to the West Philly Test
Thousands of West Philly residents fear displacement from affordable homes owned by one landlord. Mayor Parker’s $2 billion housing plan might help to prevent that fate
These State Housing Bills Could Save You Money
Four state bills to ease our housing crisis are near the finish line. Here’s what we need to get them done
Building a Better Merger
The principals of two high schools set to combine aren’t just waiting to see what happens to displaced students and staff
Development for Good: Smith & Roller Holdings
Can the transformation of a historic bank restore dignity and jobs to a neighborhood that could use the help?
Where Friendship Becomes a Ladder
How an Igbo community in West Philadelphia creates economic mobility
CHOP’s Gun Safety Rx
Can keeping kids safe from the number one cause of death come from candid healthcare professional-to-parent conversations — paired with free gun locks?
How To Really Run A City Goes to College
In a special live episode, former mayors Kasim Reed of Atlanta, Michael Nutter of Philadelphia and GT Bynum of Tulsa talk about shaping the next generation of civic leaders via an innovative new program at Penn
Citizen of the Week: Chef Nick Elmi
The Top Chef and local restaurateur has quietly transformed the lives of middle and high schoolers through the KB Foundation. This week, he hosts the organization’s annual barbecue fundraiser
Ideas We Should Steal: Safely Making Compost From … Poop?
Philadelphians flush 310 tons of what could be money-making compost every year. Will fears of forever chemical contamination prevent us from cashing in?
Your Guide to the 2026 General Election
All the candidates — including PA governor and U.S. reps — on the ballot on November 3
Who Should Be Penn’s Next President?
A long-time university president on what Philadelphia’s Ivy League university — and our city — need from a new leader
Guest Commentary: On Opioids and Climate Change
An environmental researcher on why we must consider a dual challenge facing Philadelphians in need if we want to fix the addiction crisis
Big Rube’s Philly: Style Iconoclast Charlie Lichtenfels
A Philly transplant shares their “Swamp Yankee” style, vintage records and classic 90s looks with the OG entrepreneur, chef and photographer
Welcome to Second Chance High
For more than 30 years, YouthBuild Philadelphia has helped young adults reconnect with school after dropping out. Now, it’s launched an evening program to capture those still left behind
“This is How I Can Have Impact”
The Center for Black Educator Development’s scholarship program for aspiring teachers is working to reverse the teacher shortage, one ambitious student at a time
Recapturing America’s 9/11 Unity
Twenty-five years later, a former U.S. rep and Army vet believes Americans’ courage and solidarity of those days still have lessons to teach, if we’re willing
Fight Crime — by Gardening
For more than a decade, Penn researchers have found that greener neighborhoods are less violent. Now, Pew is helping PHS double down on this confirmed hypothesis
Early Civic-hood Education
A new WHYY-TV show is teaching young viewers how to be a better part of their neighborhoods—and in turn, how to make their neighborhoods better
Is it Time to Move Beyond Death by Incarceration?
SCI Phoenix and other state prisons have become costly nursing homes, hospitals and care facilities for elderly inmates. A state bill offering a chance at release could benefit all of us
Citizen of the Week: Nafees Norris
When a young Black scientist couldn’t find representation in biotech, he created it
A Reading List for Larry Krasner
Our Trump-like DA indicted himself last week in the court of public opinion by coming up short on public virtue. Here, an offer to help
There’s (Probably) a Club for That
The guy behind Join Philly doesn’t just want people to do more things and make more friends. He wants them to stick around
Ideas We Should Steal: Universal Postpartum Services
Other states — New Jersey, for example — have launched programs that offer free at-home post-baby visits for every new mom. Could we do the same in Philly?
RFK Jr., Secretary of Measlesland
The renowned CHOP immunologist on why Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak, which led to three deaths last month, is about to get much worse
Business For Good: Mental Health in a Hoodie?
Hollie Mershon starred on Drexel’s hardwood, before knee injuries ended her pro career. Now she’s sparking conversations about mental health with an apparel brand
What Arts Funding?
It can drive the local economy and bring us all together. So why is City Hall lagging behind other cities in investing in arts and culture?
Beyond College Acceptance
How Heights Philadelphia is helping thousands of local students find their path to — and through — college
Meet the Philadelphia Documenters
Committee of 70 is reviving the Philadelphia chapter of a Chicago-born program to make sure everyone knows what’s going on in city meetings. Transparency and jobs ensue
The New Urban Order: Retail as a Public Good?
Why the City’s support of Center City’s Meantime on Market — now extended until the year’s end — is money well spent
Joe Torsella’s Declaration
The reformed politician debuts a new play — part of a new career — at next month’s Fringe Festival. Become a Citizen member and see the play with Citizen Media Group’s Larry Platt and David Cohen on September 20
Business For Good: Kidology
A Southampton company is tackling a growing problem in pediatric care: getting children developmental therapy when they need it, regardless of language, insurance or distance
All Aboard the Philly Bike Train
Who are all those people standing outside City Hall with their bicycles?
Protecting the People Who Feed Us
During Covid, South Philly’s El Comite De Trabajadorxs de Restaurante helped keep restaurant workers safe. Now, they have a new mission: Protect immigrants from unconstitutional actions on the part of ICE
Citizen of the Week: Joel Austin, Dean of Daddy University
Twenty-two years ago, a veteran from West Philly felt left out of the parenting equation. Today, he’s turned thousands of local dads into successful child-rearers
How to Fix Our (Somewhat) Sh**ty Delaware
The E. coli don’t lie. Philly’s biggest river seriously stinks. Here’s what the City can — and must — do about it
A 100-Year-Old Idea for Feeding American Cities
Twenty percent of Philadelphians regularly experience hunger — in part because they live in food deserts. National urban thinkers lay out an idea we should steal for reinventing the grocery store, from Mamdani’s New York to Atlanta, Georgia
Keeping Gen Z in Philly
According to a new report from Pew Charitable Trusts, Philadelphia-area young adults want to stay here — but struggle to find fulfilling career pathways in the city
Who is Emily Mello, New Muralist-in-Chief?
And how will the museum expert from out of town run Philly's own and beloved Mural Arts Philadelphia?
Guest Commentary: Black Philly History, Today
August marks the 130th anniversary of W.E.B. Du Bois’s seminal research on Black Philadelphians. It’s a chance to ask — and answer — hard questions about Philly today
You Get a Car Seat! And You Get a Car Seat!
A group of PA Masons, our Citizens of the Week, have come up with an ingenious way to surprise, delight and assist growing military families: mass baby showers
The New Urban Order: Walking the Unbeaten Path
City dwellers are now leaving walking tours to the tourists and group-exploring places less travelled. Why?
Is Fútbol Fever Here to Stay?
An international youth soccer nonprofit is betting big on Philadelphia residents. Can building a couple dozen pitches transform our neighborhoods?
Time for a Higher Ed Revolution in Philadelphia
A long-time university president calls for a constitutional convention on higher education in the city known for revolutions. Penn, et al, are you listening?
Can These Docs Keep Breast Cancer From Coming Back?
Thirty percent of all breast cancer patients experience a potentially deadly recurrence. Scientists at Penn are finding ways to prevent dormant cells from waking up
Citizen of The Week: Kadafi El-Kardah, Germantown’s “Drain Buddy”
How one local resident is bringing neighbors together to fight flooding, one cleanup at a time
Why LeBron James Chose the Sixers
A former congressman on what it means that the billionaire basketball legend took a massive pay cut for the chance to bring an NBA championship back to one of the league’s most storied franchises after 43 years.
How To Really Run A City: “We Need Deciders”
Former mayors Kasim Reed of Atlanta and Michael Nutter of Philadelphia talk to author Mark Dunkelman and Accelerator for America’s Mary Ellen Wiederwohl about how cities are the last bastion of progress
The Citizen Recommends: Founding Faiths
A new public engagement initiative inside 17 historic sacred places offers a chance to experience the quieter, less-trafficked gathering spots where our founders prayed for revolution
“He Chose Us”
What the LeBron James' signing says about a city finally learning to believe in itself
Big Rube’s Philly: Bariq Cobbs, “Art and Fashion”
He’s dressed the Fresh Prince, TLC and LeBron James, collabed with Nike and Nordstrom, exhibited paintings internationally — and has a whole lot in common with our city’s favorite entrepreneur, brand marketer, chef and photographer
Guest Commentary: All Hail Philly’s Superpower
We just proved we do hospitality better than anyone. Now, the head of the PHL250 says, let’s make it our legacy
A Trash Policy That Changes … Nothing
The City’s former Litter Czar bemoans what could be a missed opportunity for real environmental and sanitation changes in Philly. Here’s how we can do better
“Why Was I Stopped?”
Police can legally question citizens without reasonable suspicion or probable cause in what are called “mere encounters.” But do citizens know they’re free to walk away?
Citizen of the Week: Lisa Parker, Peace Maker
The local organizer of an international event believes Philadelphia can still become a beacon of nonviolence and cooperation
Learning through Play
You know Philadelphia as the mural capital of the world. But did you know we’re closing in on Playful Learning capital too?
Fixing the Prison-to-Temp (Worker) Pipeline
The temp work industry has more than doubled since 1990, but members of City Council and labor advocates say more accountability is long overdue
Ideas We Should Steal: Make our Rivers So Clean, You Can Swim in Them
A partnership of organizations has made Baltimore Harbor swimmable again. Could Philly do that with the Delaware and the Schuylkill?
Big Rube’s Philly: The Boys Behind Dough Heads
The iconic branding expert, chef and photographer talks business and flavors with the operators of a modern classic pizza shop in the heart of cheesesteak land
Guest Commentary: What Philadelphia Loses When We Lose Our Disabled Leaders
The city is full of Disabled civic leaders doing extraordinary work — and quietly burning through them. On what real inclusion costs, and what it should look like instead
Predatory Towing is Alive, Well, and Totally Awful
What’s worse than getting your fender blown off by a distracted driver? Trying to get your car back from the company that towed it. (And, a NE Philly Senator has just pulled off a solution)
6abc’s Heroic Stand
Free speech is the first of all rights. Philly’s legendary TV station is fighting for theirs — and yours. Here’s why it matters
Guest Commentary: One of Us
A Southwest Philadelphia educator offers a most patriotic defense of birthright citizenship
Business for Good: Perpay
A Philadelphia B Corp helps subscribers increase their credit scores simply by buying vacuum cleaners and iPhones
The New Urban Order: When Devolution is Evolution
Former Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham devolved his city to greatness, and would like to do the same for the whole U.K. Should Philly defy other U.S. cities to do the same?
The Other Music Therapy
Having reached 163,000 Philadelphia patients, a volunteer-based, WXPN-sponsored, NYC-born program touches down in its 10th local hospital
America Belongs to All of Us
Patriotism has never meant pretending America is perfect. It has always meant believing the country is yours to improve
How Soccer Saved Our 250th
Celebrating the founding of our country when it feels like everything is falling apart? Really hard. Celebrating the Philadelphia that’s been hosting the World Cup? Easy
Guest Commentary: Clean Air is Patriotic
A future pulmonologist sees the confluence of the country’s 250th and extreme heat wave in Philadelphia as a sign we need to reverse course on climate change
Guest Commentary: To Celebrate America 250 on July 4, Be like Hungary on November 3
Philly’s done right by democracy’s history this year, but its future will be written by engaged citizens between now and Election Day … and after, too
Citizen of the Week: Natasha Agarwal
Five years after collecting her first donations, Penn student Natasha Agarwal is celebrating 250,000 books distributed to young readers.
“I Just Played In The World Cup And My Dream Is Complete”
Checking in with Media’s own Auston Trusty, Team USA’s newest World Cup superstar, on bringing his Philly-ness to the world stage
Parker v. Parker
A year from reelection, the mayor has taken big swings, sustained political losses, and faces progressive backlash. Here, a job performance review — and a challenge
The New Urban Order: Everything is TV Now — Including Cities
An urbanist believes the recent successes of FIFA Fan Fests, the NBA Finals, even Toy Story 5 prove synchronous watching is the new placemaking
First Place for Philadelphia’s First Tee
How our chapter of the national golf for youth nonprofit has built the nation’s best program
From Putrid to Promising
How an ambitious, three-year-long freshwater mussels project transformed the smelly Manayunk Canal into an emerging fishing destination
Juneteenth in the Shadow of the Semiquincentennial
The miracle of Black life — despite centuries of alienation from our American experiment — is our insistence on finding kinship with each other. That is what we celebrate this weekend
How To Really Run A City: The U.S. Cities Building Wealth
A special episode of our podcast with former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and former Philly Mayor Michael Nutter explores how eight cities are tackling one of our country’s most pressing problems
Citizen of the Week: Amy Thatcher, Beekeeping Librarian
Is Port Richmond the coolest library in Philadelphia? If so, it’s thanks to a clever, kind, and innovative worker bee living three blocks away (and actual bees who dwell there)
Big Rube’s Philly: Jamele Ransom, Crossing Guard and Then Some
The iconic brand builder, photographer and chef sits down with a friend, fellow style guy, and viral sensation
Guest Commentary: Make Schools the Center of Philly’s Wealth Strategy
Want to grow our city? The path, the Center for Black Educator Development’s founder argues, is through our children’s classrooms
Summer of Mann
To celebrate its 50th anniversary — and the nation’s 250th — the West Fairmount Park music venue will unveil a dramatic new look to its campus on Monday
Letters To My Murdered Brother
In Brother Epistles, set to be released this month, Dr. Shanda McManus delves into her decades-long grief after losing her brother to a shooting, and examines the forces shaping the lives of other young Black men.
The New Urban Order: The Great Aesthetics Debate of 2026
Amid Washington, D.C.’s return to classical (and gilt-adorned) architecture, can Chicago’s Obama Presidential Center reinvigorate America’s waning affinity for modern design?
Ideas We Should Steal: Books for Every Pennsylvania Child
Like 22 other states, the PA House passed a Montco Rep’s bill to encourage reading in every household. The inspiration? Dolly Parton
Business for Good: New Mom School
A Graduate Hospital mom opens PA's first postpartum education center, serving moms after baby arrives and baby showers are a distant memory
The Boss Shows the Way
For a decade, political leaders and media elites haven’t known how to respond to Trumpism. Last week in a South Philly patriotic tent show revival, Bruce Springsteen provided a script
How to Really Run a City: “The Key Word in ‘Progressive’ is Progress”
Milwaukee’s Cavalier “Chevy” Johnson, one of the youngest mayors in the nation, on the art of giving voters something to vote for
Investing in Logan Elementary
The community school in North Philadelphia has grown and prospered because of neighbors’ and outsiders’ involvement — and, coincidentally, a man named Prosper
A Guide to Free and Affordable Youth Sports in Philadelphia
Travel sports are a small fortune — these opportunities for your kids aren’t
Business for Good: Paratodo
Francis Young’s groundbreaking menswear line is heading back to Paris Fashion Week — but makes its biggest impact on hyper-local causes
The Untouchable Sheriff
Missing firearms, a no-bid contract, stalled reforms: Why are Rochelle Bilal’s fellow pols still standing by her?
The Citizen Recommends: GrandWomen
“Life is hard, but it can be a blast” and more lessons and stories from local women who’ve been there, done that, and are telling all, onstage
Meet a Health Hero: Cheryl Colleluori of HEADstrong Foundation
The 2025 finalist for the Be Well Philly Health Hero Challenge, presented by IBX, carried on her son’s legacy after his death from lymphoma, helping nearly 40,000 cancer patients find free lodging during their own treatments
The Mamdani-fication of Philadelphia
Is the now inevitable election of Democratic Socialist Chris Rabb to Congress part of a trend that should have us asking: Where have all the serious people gone?
How to Really Run A City: Are You Ready for Freddie?
Transit evangelist Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell talks with our hosts former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and former Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter about forcing the issues that matter
Citizen of the Week: Karen Sandone, Caregiver Advocate
When her husband Anthony was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s, a Doylestown woman chose to speak out and create a national community of support
Ideas We Should Steal: Borrow Before We Burn
What if Philadelphia applied the Free Library model to household tools, vacuums, even party supplies? London’s Library of Things does it — saving Londoners millions
Who Will Benefit From The UArts Endowment Fiasco?
A longtime university president urges the parties involved to resolve the case in the best interest of students and the city
The New Urban Order: Utopian Pragmatism and More Mind-Blowing Ideas for Cities
In the future, we’ll be working at night, skiing atop waste plants, buying single room homes, and measuring everything with AI, according to this year’s Bloomberg CityLab in Madrid
Fighting Black Erasure
Penn professor Sarah Jackson’s new book chronicles the radical acts of Black media-makers who, recognized or not, have shaped the American Experiment over the past 250 years.
Ideas We Should Steal: Social Housing
Vienna and Maryland have invested in innovative, income diverse public housing to much acclaim. Could they work in Philly too?
The School Where Kids Can Actually … Read
What other schools can learn from the way South Philly’s Sharswood K-8 has raised reading scores in the first year of the city’s new literacy curriculum
Welcome To Pander-Delphia
Local debates around Gaza, school closings, and ICE all raise the same question: Does anyone care about actual governing, or has Philly fully entered the age of the political grandstand?
How to Really Run A City: Unpacking a Mayor’s Superpower
Former Indianapolis Mayor Stephen Goldsmith, an urban policy prof at Harvard, talks with former Mayors Kasim Reed of Atlanta and Michael Nutter of Philly about how grassroots decision-making can shape a city
The New Urban Order: Abundance, Madrid Style
Spain’s capital may be centuries older than Philadelphia. But the vibrant city offers forward-thinking growth mindset ideas our comparatively smaller (and younger) hometown should steal
Guest Commentary: College Life on the Decline? Not Here.
As smaller private schools struggle, community colleges fuel growth in higher ed. Let’s support them, says a local education leader
Big Rube’s Philly: Neighborhood Gazing
The iconic brand marketer, chef and photographer takes us on a Gordon Parks-style journey through the streets of Philadelphia, his first foray into street photography
Business for Good: FiXA, the Home Repair Connector
What if you didn’t have to bug your friends and family for home repair help and contractor references? A Philadelphia based, women-owned company has your back
RECAP: 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards
The annual event featured Jane Golden, Leigh and John Middleton, Dr. Paul Offit, along with a block captain, youth leader, educator, social justice champion and groundbreaking scientists
The Semiquincentennial of Dinah’s Liberation
The story of a woman enslaved at Stenton in 1776 brings up more questions than answers — and that is as it should be
Guest Commentary: Is Free Assembly the Freedom We’re Forgetting?
Amid the ongoing conversation about free speech, democracy-loving Americans should be paying attention to — and exercising — their First Amendment right to … show up, together
The New Urban Order: Subsidizing the Sidewalk
San Francisco’s new incentive program to bring retail back to downtown is an idea Philadelphia should steal
Guest Commentary: School District, Don’t Eliminate What’s Working
A Philadelphia public school teacher argues against the District’s plan to close his school. Give Lankenau Environmental a chance to grow
Will PA’s Plans to Increase Housing Exclude Philly?
Bipartisan zoning reform bills that could open up the state to in-law apartments and rooming houses could leave our city out. That would be a mistake
Ona Judge Day Is the Holiday We Need Right Now
One month and 230 years ago, a 22-year-old escaped the Philadelphia house where Martha and George Washington enslaved her. Today, sign a petition to put honor on her name
Citizen of the Year Awards: Jane Golden, Edward G. Rendell Lifetime Achievement Award
Mural Arts Philadelphia’s founder and executive director, who is stepping down this year, has made Philly the public art capital of the country, with over 4,400 murals gracing walls citywide. Here are the ones that tell her story
Ideas We Should Steal: Fix the Sidewalks!
Denver just became the latest major city to launch a comprehensive plan for repairing and expanding its sidewalk networks. What is Philly waiting for?
The Key to Staying Out of Prison? Jobs
Through partnerships with the City and HRP Group, the Center for Employment Opportunities is helping formerly incarcerated Philadelphians on the path to a better life
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Corporate Citizens Leigh and John Middleton
You know them as the couple who owns the Phillies. You likely know less about their extensive philanthropy, including being the force behind a major new art exhibition — and that’s just fine with them
We Must Ensure Students Can Vote
President Trump is trying to make it harder for college students to cast a ballot. A longtime university president encourages us all to push back for the sake of our democracy
The Citizen Recommends: Have Your Say in the City Budget
It’s budget season, time for Philadelphians to comment on how the City should spend their money in the coming year. Mural Arts helps you do it
The New Urban Order: The Bourgeois Bunker
The upper middle class isn't leaving cities. They’re just eschewing the civic reasons they chose to live there in the first place
Can City Council Fix Our Reproductive Healthcare Crisis?
Federal and local funding cuts are decimating an already precarious healthcare landscape, especially for Philadelphia’s most vulnerable communities. City funding could help
How to Celebrate Local News Day
The Philadelphia Citizen and Philadelphia magazine invite you to take part in this first-ever day of action. (But you can also celebrate tomorrow, and the day after that … )
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: A. Leon Higginbotham Social Justice Champion Keisha Hudson
For her commitment to protecting and defending Philadelphia’s immigrant communities, Hudson will be honored at our annual Awards celebration on April 22
Networking for Creatives
A graphic designer launched Collab for Philadelphians who work in creative jobs — or want to — and other creatives who just want to make a new friend or two
Citizen of the Year: Dr. Paul Offit
The man who RFK Jr. wants you to hate just wants to save our kids, using proven science
Business for Good: Sonura, a Cap that Protects Preemies
Penn Engineering grads developed a high-tech beanie that protects the tiniest of ears from NICU noise
Ideas We Should Steal: Stadium Beer — in Reusable Cups
Game days are amazing, but they’re also incredibly wasteful. One Oregon company has helped a number of professional sports arenas convert to reusable cups and food baskets. Could South Philly be next?
Citizen Of The Week: Christina Kallas-Saritsoglou, Quiet Champion
For more than 20 years, the co-founder of Philly AIDS Thrift has done good by selling people’s old, unwanted stuff — resulting in more than $5 million of good
Are Our Kids Not Learning Good?
Budget cuts. School closures. Structural deficit. Scant academic progress. Spin from District headquarters. Larry Platt asks: Is Superintendent Watlington up to being a transformational leader?
How to Really Run a City: The Sweet Smell of $1 Million For Cities
Lafayette, LA, Mayor Monique Blanco Boulet and Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Aparna Ramanan talk with our hosts about innovation, civic prize money and cleaning up a city’s stinking sewers
Citizen of the Year: Disruptors Carl June and Jeff Marrazzo
They’re charting a course to a world without cancer tumors and reinvigorating Philly’s “Cellicon Valley” with their new company, Dispatch Biotherapeutics. For their bold vision, we’re awarding this duo our Disruptors of the Year.
Now Hiring — U.S. Congressperson
The Citizen’s Ultimate Job Interview will feature the top four candidates to replace Democratic Rep. Dwight Evans in Pennsylvania’s 3rd District. Here’s our crowd-sourced description of the job they hope to fill
Ideas We Should Steal: Give Every Kid a Bed
Three percent of all children in the U.S. are bedless. An Idaho-based nonprofit working to give them a safe, comfortable place to sleep now has a chapter in NJ. Is Philly next?
Citizen of the Week: The Flower Girl
Leona Davis wanted to repurpose the flowers from her daughter’s wedding. Now she’s created a circle of giving that brings joy, purpose, and sustainability across the region
How a Piece of Philly History Thwarted Netflix
A Penn law professor explains the 1963 antitrust case involving Philly banks that frustrated the streaming giant’s plans for world domination. For now.
The Citizen Recommends: Take a Cab
Why pay Silicon Valley tech companies for your ride when locally-owned taxi cabs are cheaper, faster and put money back into Philadelphia’s economy?
Citizens of the Week: Mt. Airy Family Commons Founders
Parenting infants and little children can be incredibly lonely. Hannah Fenlon, Linda Joy and Hannah Newman have a solution in a co-op that already includes 80 families
The New Urban Order: The Case Against Managed Decline in the School District
In all the talk over closing and fixing Philly schools, there is no mention of building new ones that might serve the community better into the future. Can we look to New York City and Boston for solutions we should steal?
Citizen Recommends: Celebrate PA’s 250th at Carpenters’ Hall
Sure, the nation’s turning 250 this year. But so is our state’s most vital document — and Pennsylvania’s Constitution is, in many ways, the ultimate bulwark of your freedoms
How to Really Run a City: Breaking Through Media Tribalism
Pundit and activist Michael Smerconish joins Citizen Co-founder Larry Platt, along with former Mayors Michael Nutter and Kasim Reed, to talk about the current state of media and the importance of people connecting with people IRL
The New Urban Order: Are Cities Finding their Footing — Or Losing it Again?
Six years after Covid, nationwide, urban recovery is real, but it’s uneven — and newly at risk. What cities are doing it right?
Guest Commentary: Same Street, New Story
The Ramblas effect: Philadelphia's experiment in pedestrian-first streets — by the woman who made Open Streets happen
History Floats
Ahead of the country’s 250th anniversary, the historic tall ship Gazela celebrates getting to 125 — with a little help from her friends
Are Campuses Ideological Battlegrounds?
Not according to students in a recent poll. A longtime university president reflects on how the new data explodes the political narrative
Don’t Look Now … But Philly is Safe
How the hell did that happen? And why is the mayor not taking more credit for it? The anatomy of a stunning turnaround
An Unexpected Happy Ending
Filmmaker Rah Crawford’s short documentary tells a hidden Philly history about 1800s slave ships — and a family of descendants who call the city of brotherly love home
Could these Tiny Robots … Cure Cancer?
Researchers at Penn and the University of Michigan have developed the world’s smallest, fully autonomous robots. The health applications are nearly endless
Guest Commentary: Holding on to Mayor Parker’s Commonsense Coalition
A free market advocate doesn’t always support the mayor’s policies, but he applauds her focus on what really matters to Philadelphians
The New Urban Order: Putting Pedestrians First
Atlanta’s 20-year-old Beltline proves comprehensive pedestrian-centered development — in contrast to Philadelphia’s piecemeal approach — has rich rewards
Is Philly Ready for a Driverless Future?
Google’s Waymo taxis are quickly learning Philly roads, while lawmakers — and all of us — grapple with what it means for our city
Guest Commentary: Marijuana Madness Mugs PA Tax Revenue
The late Milton Street proposed legalizing recreational weed in 1983. A longtime local journalist wonders how we can still justify giving up millions of much-needed tax dollars
Eds, Meds … and Seventh Graders?
At Hardy Williams High School, a new health institute creates early pathways into the nation’s fastest growing, and possibly most enduring, job sector
No More FOMO
Local social media app Playdate encourages IRL gatherings by telling Philadelphians what events are happening in town — and encouraging them to invite their friends
Remembering Isaiah Zagar
A longtime friend and admirer reflects on Philly’s one-of-a-kind outsider artist, who died this week.
Committeeperson Elections, By the Numbers
Thinking about running for the lowest elected office in Philly? Chances are, you’ll win
Yo Philly! Claim Your Money
Last year, Philadelphians got $19 million back in government refunds. This year, take advantage of a free city program to get yours
Citizen of the Week: Carlos Rogers, Bike Race Reviver
How a tattooed, middle-aged hairstylist made The Philadelphia Cycling Classic the sporting surprise of America’s 250th
Hey Philly! Let’s Hire a Congressperson
Help us write a job description for the candidates vying to replace Philadelphia’s U.S. Representative Dwight Evans — and then join us to help interview them for the job
Guest Commentary: The Legacy We Inherit
Honoring Philadelphia's Black labor history and fighting for the future of the Black workers
How to Really Run a City: Mayors Confronting ICE — and Ice
In a special episode of our podcast, former Mayors Kasim Reed of Atlanta and Michael Nutter of Philadelphia delve into the recent twin crises facing city leaders across the country
How Federal Cuts Are Transforming PA’s Solar Industry
Renewable energy provider Solar States hit its stride just as the Trump administration cut subsidies — can a loophole keep them afloat?
Citizen of the Week: Klean Kensington’s Jeremy Chen
Philadelphia wants residents to imagine the future. In Kensington, one resident is helping teens just achieve more than surviving the present
Guest Commentary: When One Door Closes
REC Philly is no more, but, its co-founder says, Philadelphia's creators are as strong as ever
Ideas We Should Steal: Free Food at the Free Library
A longtime university president suggests the city’s library system follow Chicago and Baltimore, and add food pantries to its community services
The Money Behind MAHA
What makes “Big Wellness” so dangerous? The renowned CHOP immunologist explains
Snow, a Mayor’s Kryptonite
It's been 11 days since snowmageddon. How's Cherelle Parker doing?
Citizen of the Week: Michael Idriss, Black History Game Changer
African American history has been disappeared from Independence National Historical Park. Not so at the Museum of the American Revolution, with thanks to one “time traveler”
Meet the Citizens of the Year
These local heroes make Philly stronger, wiser, healthier, kinder and more awesome. Help us celebrate them
Big Rube’s Philly: The Athlete Edit
Way before the NFL and NBA posted game-day fits, the iconic photographer, Mitchell & Ness marketing guru and gourmet soul food chef snapped Philadelphia’s most stylish pros off the field and on the streets
Business for Good: FSH Technologies
A Facebook alum wanted to do work that matches her values. Now her Philly tech company is helping the city’s small businesses navigate a new tax landscape
Are You There, Constitution Center? It’s Me, a Citizen
Jeffrey Rosen is out. Now, the NCC must decide if it will remain a genteel place of scholarship or become the antidote to the threat to democracy
How to Really Run a City: The Mayor Dude with the Skater Attitude
Former mayors Kasim Reed of Atlanta and Michael Nutter of Philadelphia welcome Allentown’s punk rock leader Matthew Tuerk to the latest episode of the podcast
The New Urban Order: Would You Move for Built-in Community?
A program that pays people to relocate to Tulsa, Oklahoma has grown the city’s population and quadrupled its investment. Is this an idea Philly should steal?
Guest Commentary: Dismantling America’s Truth
Philly writer Lorene Cary helped tell the story of the people George Washington enslaved in his home on what’s now Independence Mall. A fellow social justice activist decries the Trump-directed erasure of her work — and the facts
Business for Good: Aer Cosmetics
Entrepreneur and pro dancer Paige DeAngelo knows the importance of good mascara — and she’s eyeing big growth for her sustainable makeup brand this year
Defining Our Housing Challenge(s)
Laying out the seven distinct but intersecting problems that boil down to: "How do you build more homes that people can afford?"
Progressives cheered, but the Sheriff’s viral press conference about Trump and ICE was a spectacle Philly can ill afford on the national stage right now
Guest Commentary: RFK Jr.’s Strategy for Restoring “Trust”
The Secretary of Health doesn’t apologize — even, as the renowned CHOP immunologist explains, when he is proven wrong about the link between Tylenol and autism
The New Urban Order: Where’s the American Dream for Renters?
Renters — an entire generation who can’t afford to buy a house — deserve economic mobility, too. The solution: Programs that help save money and build equity
The Time for Freedom Is Now
This MLK Day requires more than service. It is about resistance.
Can Brian Fitzpatrick Put an End to Political Parties?
It's an ambitious goal for the more famously bipartisan Republican Congressman from Bucks County. Still, he's not backing down
Breaking Bread For Citizenship
The Welcoming Center’s 2026 dinner series will bring immigrants and native-born Philadelphians together to explore the themes of neighborliness and good citizenship while bonding over the most human of activities: eating
What Should Philly Look Like in 2076? Ask an Eighth Grader
Breakthrough and Penn asked 20 young teens to imagine Philadelphia in 50 years. They created a vision for the future —and hope for the kids themselves
Inside the Philadelphia Art Museum’s Epic Meltdown
The exclusive story behind the brutal ouster of Sasha Suda and the new civil war at Philadelphia’s premier cultural institution
Citizen of the Week: Alison Grove, Hype Woman
You won’t see her dressed like Betsy Ross or scoring a goal on the World Cup soccer pitch, but behind the scenes, she’s made a career of transforming thousands of proud Philadelphians into expert — and excited — volunteer hosts
Whose 250th Is This Anyway?
The nation was birthed in Philly, and we do have some great parties — and soccer! — planned. But, as democracy teeters, are we really owning the semiquincentennial?
Ideas We Should Steal: Keep Philly Renters from Drowning in Junk Fees
Undisclosed in rental leases, add-on costs threaten to upend affordable housing. Seattle and other cities have begun to put a stop to the practice
LANE JOHNSON’S SEASON OF STRONG MENTAL HEALTH: Lessons from the world’s best mental performance coach
As the Eagles head to the playoffs, the two-time Super Bowl champ shares the actionable advice from Brian Cain that anyone can embrace to soar higher — no matter what field you’re on
“Nothing Short of A Miracle”
The annual convening of Black male educators late last year was a reminder of what can happen when Black men show up for the future.
Guest Commentary: Can We Be Denmark Now?
President Trump recently issued an executive order asking the United States to align itself with other countries and give fewer vaccines. But, CHOP’s renowned immunologist argues, perhaps Denmark should look to us instead
The Best Ways To Not Drink in Philly for Dry January
Planning to hop on the wagon for the next 31 days, more or less? Check out these non-alcoholic bars, mocktails and bottle shops in Philadelphia
Adios, 2025 …
… happy to have you in the rear view. Here, the things we cared about in the year that was — and what to expect in 2026.
Guest Commentary: My Sparkly Crocodile Strut of Hope
The Welcoming Center’s President and CEO needs a dash of optimism going into the new year. He’s found it in our city’s 125th Mummers Parade.
7 Philly Athletes (plus 2 Team Owners and 1 Mascot) that Gave Back Big in 2025
We know Hurts, Schwarber, Johnson et al kill it on the field. But it’s what they do off the field that makes them real hometown heroes
The Citizen Recommends: 2026 Free Library Author Series
The Citizen is partnering with the Free Library again to bring thinkers, doers, creators and dreamers to the stage. Join us
The New Urban Order: The Four Best Things to Happen in Cities in 2025 …
… and one city that had a very very bad year
Philly Moments That Made Us Proud In 2025
A year when kids became heroes, sports took the spotlight, and our sandwich finally got its due
Big Rube’s Philly: Jennifer Sherlock, Cosmopolitan Communicator
The chef, branding guru and photographer sits down with a self-made PR maven with thousands of unread messages
Healing the Vicarious Trauma of Jury Duty
For some jurors, the hardest part comes post-trial. A free West Chester University program helps citizens who’ve served recover from stress and PTSD
Ideas We Should Steal: Fund Reproductive Care
At a time when Washington, D.C. is in hot debate over the Affordable Care Act, Maryland is using an ACA provision to fund safe, legal abortions for Medicaid recipients — without costing taxpayers. Should Pennsylvania follow suit?
Can this New Food Hall Solve College Hunger?
University City’s Gather stands alone for its commitment to community, small local restaurants and fighting hunger — though you can just go for the tasty food
How To Really Run A City: “Spare Me Your Bullsh*t”
Maryland’s Martin O’Malley talks with former mayors Michael Nutter of Philadelphia and Kasim Reed of Atlanta about the only form of governance that matters. (Hint: It’s where sh*t gets done.)
Reforming Resign to Run … Without Reform
The City law requiring elected officials to quit before running for another office makes elections less competitive. Council’s new proposal won’t fix it — without a change
Could Philly’s $2 Billion Bet on Housing Help Cut Gun Violence?
Research has found that fixing up abandoned homes can make a city safer. The H.O.M.E Plan calls for building and rehabbing 30,000 homes in four years
LANE JOHNSON’S SEASON OF STRONG MENTAL HEALTH: When Asking for Help Makes You Stronger
Coming off the Eagles game against the Raiders, the two-time Super Bowl champ shares why he’s so inspired by a friend and fellow football great, Las Vegas Defensive End Maxx Crosby.
Guest Commentary: Do We Really Want To “Stop Trusting Experts”?
CHOP’s renowned immunologist on why following recent recommendations by RFK Jr.’s vaccine advisory committee is really not a good idea.
Citizen of the Week: LaTonya Myers
The Philly woman was on probation for 12 years before securing her early release. Now she’s helping others navigate the system — including a local mom who is now probation-free thanks to REFORM Alliance and Myers’ nonprofit, Above All Odds
Business for Good: MeaningSphere
A new online coaching tool from former Vertex CEO Jeff Westphal promises professional mentorship — without the mentor
The New Urban Order: What to Watch for in 2026 …
More PG movie-going, better rent deals … and more vibe-y New Year predictions for cities
Business for Good: Made Institute
Couture designer Rachel Ford traded her fashion career for one that teaches amateurs — 225 so far — to pursue their own design dreams. Now, national brands are paying attention
Yo, Eagles Fans, Cut It Out
Hurling eggs at an Eagles coach’s house isn’t gritty — it’s bullying. It’s time to retire the mean routine, and not just in sports
Citizen of the Week: The Man Who May Save Philly’s Small Businesses
Jigar Mehta led an effort to spare small businesses from a shocking tax increase next year wrought by Mayor Parker’s new tax plan. Will it become law?
Citizen of the Week: Rob Lawless and his 10,000 Friends
The 34-year-old Philadelphian has spent the last decade connecting with his fellow humans. So far, he’s met 7,000 — and counting
Business for Good: The Baby Gear Revolution Launched in Philly
Baby Gear Group, now a B Corp, was named a Time magazine invention of the year by letting families rent strollers and other childcare essentials for a fraction of the cost and environmental impact. It’s now expanded across the region and country
An Ask From Some Higher Powers
Citizen Media Group CEO/President on why what we do matters now more than ever — and how you can keep us going.
Guest Commentary: Housing for the Homeless Shouldn’t Be a Competition
Automated systems decide which homeless Philadelphians get housing and who stays on the street — often in ways that feel arbitrary to those waiting
The 2025 Do Good Gift Guide
Just in time for Black Friday shopping, we present our annual roundup of great gifts that give back. Happy everything!
If These Two Could Become Friends…
What does America need on Thanksgiving 2025? Civility, kindness and open-mindedness, of the kind demonstrated by political enemies-turned-best friends Fred Guttenberg and Joe Walsh
How to Really Run a City: Leading a City … With Jokes
A live Ideas We Should Steal Festival taping of our podcast with Rochester Hills, Michigan Mayor Bryan Barnett made one thing clear: Cities need leaders who bring joy to their jobs
“To Be On Someone’s Mind Is To Be Loved”
It’s hard to serve others these days. That’s why the United Way’s Bill Golderer, along with former Big Brothers CEO Marcus Allen, is giving thanks this week to Philly’s nonprofit leaders
Guest Commentary: R.I.P. CDC, 1946-2025
A renowned CHOP immunologist on Robert F. Kennedy Jr. weaponizing the CDC to promote his anti-vaccine views.
The Fight for Philly’s Front Doors
Corporate investors are scooping up one in four homes for sale in Philadelphia, locking out individual bidders. Can ordinary citizens still afford to own a piece of their own city?
RECAP: What We Saw At The Ideas We Should Scale Showcase
At The Citizen’s inaugural event last week, funders and supporters had the chance to support three local nonprofits that are aiming for a bigger impact.
New Urban Order: Are Museums A Thing of the Past?
The Philly arts organizations bringing in audiences are not the ones you might expect. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing
The New Localism: What Mamdani’s Election Can Teach Us About Housing
New York’s Mayor-elect proved that affordability is a top priority for voters. Can American cities make rents lower and also build more housing?
Guest Commentary: We Can Stop Trashing the Region’s Health
A clean air advocate urges support for Councilperson Jamie Gauthier’s efforts to stop Philly from burning trash
Say Goodbye To Your (Not Quite) Weed Seltzer
Tucked away in the Senate bill to fund the U.S. government is a provision that would ban all hemp products. In Pennsylvania, which has failed to legalize recreational marijuana, that threatens more than 9,000 jobs — and $50 million in tax revenue.
“You Can’t Be Denied If You Haven’t Applied”
Penn and the Heights have launched a program to help high schoolers navigate their way through college applications. A longtime university president visited a classroom at Carver to learn more
A Modern Day Rosie The Riveter
Trailblazer Elaine McGuire is leading the charge to attract and train more electricians like her: Black women.
Amy Gutmann’s American Story
Last week at the Weitzman Museum of Jewish History, the former Penn president and US Ambassador to Germany reminded us what it takes to repair the breach
Philly, Porch Pirate City
Philadelphia has the country’s second-highest rate of package theft. Whose fault is it — and what is the solution?
Hello? Board Leadership? Are you There?
The Art Museum sacking of Sasha Suda is the latest story to raise questions about nonprofit governance in Philly.
BIG RUBE’S PHILLY: Caryn Kunkle, The Art-World Connector Who Lives in a Museum
The legendary photographer and chef catches up with a born-and-bred Philly gal who works behind the scenes to help our local art scene thrive
The Coming Artificial Intelligence Crash
A local economics expert doesn’t wonder if an AI downturn is coming — just how bad it will be
The New Urban Order: Can AI Achieve the Broken Promises of Smart Cities?
A conversation with AI expert and professor Neil Kleiman on how the newest tech might transform how cities work
Civics Out Loud
An iconic Philadelphia author and youth voting activist outlines a day in the life of politically engaged local students, lesson by lesson
New Media for a New Philadelphia Age
The Citizen just bought storied Philadelphia magazine. Here’s why
What a Bucks Co Sheriff’s Race Can Tell Us about U.S. Politics
Can a challenger in a Bucks County’s election have the formula for how Democrats can win on public safety?
Lane Johnson’s Season of Strong Mental Health: The 24/7 Support Philly Kids and Families Need
The two-time Super Bowl champ checks in on CHOP’s Behavioral Health and Crisis Center, which is meeting the overwhelming demand for mental health support for young people
Ideas We Should Steal: Schools of Civic Thought
15 universities in 10 states — including Yale and University of Texas — have launched programs that focus on thinking and citizenship. We could use more of that here, too
Ideas We Should Steal: Mayor Parker, Here’s How to Build More H.O.M.E.s
Don’t just spend money, recycle it with a new revolving construction loan fund like they have in Atlanta, Chicago and Chattanooga
Larry Krasner, Meet Harry Truman
In the aftermath of the tragic Kada Scott murder, the D.A. has said the buck stops with him. Or was he actually passing it?
More than Street Cleaning
After four years, Glitter has proven it can create jobs, clean neighborhoods, build community — and, even, reduce gun violence
Does The Kensington Wellness Court Work?
The $5.5 million pilot program is a key part of Mayor Parker’s plan to address the addiction and homelessness issues in the ravaged neighborhood. Nine months in, no one seems to know when — or if — we’ll know it’s successful
We Are The Champions …
… of squash, thanks to our year-old professional team, the Philadelphia Lightning. That’s just one part of being the undisputed squash capital of the United States
Building Community Through … Babka
In a sea of bakery pop-ups in Philly, Queen Village’s Rougarou Baking is a window into what makes this city so special
Is This The End of PA’s Nonpartisan Supreme Court?
Mudslinging. False advertising. The state’s richest Republican vs. its popular Democratic governor. Just what the hell is going on with judicial elections in Pennsylvania?
LANE JOHNSON’S SEASON OF STRONG MENTAL HEALTH: Is Social Media the New Drugs and Alcohol?
As we take on the Vikings this weekend, the two-time Super Bowl champ highlights a Minnesota law leading the way in solving this most modern of public health crises
Business for Good: Zenith Wealth Partners
Jason Ray launched his financial advisory firm with a singular mission: Closing the racial wealth gap in Philadelphia. So far, it’s generated $100 million for its clients
Citizen of the Week: Is this Montco Doctor the Antidote to … Joe Rogan?
Maybe not quite yet, but Ezekiel Tayler is aiming to inform and sway voters on his year-old podcast — starting with all the judges on the November ballot
Photo Essay: Riding High – All Year Long
A weather-proof polo arena for kids – in Philadelphia? That seemingly wild vision has become a reality for young horse riders
How To Really Run A City: A Political “A-hole” No More
On the latest episode of our podcast, former Philly Mayor Michael Nutter talks with a self-described — now reformed — Tea Party arsonist about what his apology tour has taught him about the future of America
Lane Johnson’s Season of Strong Mental Health: Fighting Loneliness, Generationally
Loneliness is a scourge, particularly among older Americans. As we head to play the Giants on Thursday, the two-time Super Bowl champ highlights a New York-based nonprofit that has been successfully addressing social isolation for decades.
New Urban Order: Calder Gardens’ Missed Opportunities
An urbanist grapples with her contrarian view of Philadelphia's newest museum, and how it reflects her city
“We Love Birds.”
Since the pandemic forced people outside, birding is having a moment. In Philly, it’s helping residents see their city anew
The Skills Initiative is an Idea Worth Stealing
In partnership with Accelerator for America, the West Philly-based jobs training program is sharing its successful model across the country — starting with our Super Bowl rival Kansas City
The Incredible Shrinking Housing Plan?
Mayor Cherelle Parker’s signature program, H.O.M.E., will build far fewer dwellings than she once promised. Will it solve the problems that need solving?
The WNBA As You’ve Never Seen It … In Philly
Unrivaled, the new 3v3 professional women’s basketball league, makes its tour debut here on January 30, thanks to Philly Sisters, co-founded by Wanda and Alex Sykes
Lane Johnson’s Season of Strong Mental Health: Students, Help Each Other
Founded at Penn, Active Minds is now a national college and high school network of students helping each other address their mental health struggles
“All Teachers Need To Go Through This”
Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia is helping to fill classrooms with programs that serve two customers: future teachers and middle schoolers
War Zone or Reprieve?
A Trace analysis of 10 years of neighborhood-level shooting data found that gun violence is lower almost everywhere than it was in 2015 — but Philadelphians are still reeling from more than 16,000 shootings.
The New Urban Order: Can We Make Car-Free Streets Permanent?
Everyone loves once-a-week open streets. What would it take to transform the happenings into a full-time situation?
Lane Johnson’s Season of Strong Mental Health: Mental Health is a Team Sport
As the Eagles take on the Bucs this week, the two-time Super Bowl Champion highlights a Tampa mental health collaborative that is a model Philly might want to steal
How To Really Run A City: Detroit Is Back, Baby!
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan joins former Philly Mayor Michael Nutter, former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and Citizen Co-founder Larry Platt to share secrets from the urban turnaround of the century
Ideas We Should Steal: A SEPTA Backup Plan?
A public-private partnership in South Bend, Indiana lets employers and nonprofits offer free and low-cost Uber, Lyft and bus trips to workers and clients. Could this be a way to weather the next SEPTA doomsday?
Only One in the Room? Not Anymore.
A Philadelphia-born engineer wanted to see more young people of color enter STEM fields. He started a program in his garage — and ended up with a generation of confident scholars
“Do We Have to Wait Until He Stabs Someone?”
One Philadelphian learns a complicated lesson in how to help a stranger in public mental health distress — featuring a confusing municipal system and one very simple (and under funded) solution
Jimmy Kimmel’s Right to Satirize
Does he have one? A Temple Law professor who studies comedy and democracy on whether both are imperiled now
Lane Johnson’s Season of Strong Mental Health: My Friendship with Jay Glazer
The two-time Super Bowl Champion, five-time All-Pro, and six-time Pro Bowler offensive lineman relies on a powerful tool he learned from the NFL and MMA broadcaster and trainer to strengthen his own mental health: authentic friendship
The Woman Republicans Hope Can Beat Josh Shapiro
State Treasurer Stacy Garrity — who received the most votes of any PA candidate ever in her reelection bid last year — may already be the Commonwealth’s most successful female politician of all time. But is that enough?
Is Philadelphia’s Revival at Risk?
The 10-year tax abatement spurred the city’s growth. But recent policies may threaten that progress
Where Does Philly Need More Homes?
A new tool offers once-and-for-all answers to what kinds of housing the city needs, and exactly where. Will City Hall use it?
Screw the Grudge. Bring the Grace.
How we can turn spitting, ball-grabbing and hat-snatching bad behavior in sports into everything that is good about humans
Can A Horrific Political Assassination Finally Bring Us Together?
A local vet and former U.S. Rep on what 9/11 and Charlie Kirk’s assassination tell us about the America we live in. A roadmap to unity
Lane Johnson’s Season of Strong Mental Health: Mobile Care for KC Kids
As the Birds head to Kansas City to play the Chiefs on Sunday, the Eagles’ five-time All-Pro, six-time Pro Bowler shares the city's innovative approach to get children the mental healthcare they deserve
Big Rube’s Philly: Kevin Gregg, Building a Baseball Legacy
The Phillies Vice President of Communications comes from MLB royalty — but he’s more than proven himself on his own, by the iconic photographer, chef and brand marketer
Happy Birthday. Thank You
The Citizen turns 10 today! Here, 10 ways you have helped us make an impact in the last decade
Ideas We Should Steal: “One City” to Cut Poverty
In 2011, Richmond, VA’s mayor set an ambitious citywide goal to reduce its dismal poverty rate. Two successors later, the city is showing remarkable success. Can Philly do the same?
Lane Johnson’s Season of Strong Mental Health: The Pro Bowler’s Latest Title — Citizen Columnist
Each week this season, two-time Super Bowl Champion, five-time All-Pro, and six-time Pro Bowler offensive lineman Lane Johnson will spotlight people and programs in the world of mental health. Ahead of the Birds’ first game tonight, he shares his own struggles — and what has helped
The New Urban Order: Quit Whining about Travel Sports
Intense youth sports are a rational response to the hyper-competitive world we live in.
Ideas We Should Steal: Break — Then Fix — the School District
Hurricane Katrina pushed New Orleans to completely upend how it educates its children. Twenty years later its success is off the charts. Finally, folks are talking about it.
SEPTA, The Art of The Ordeal
Compromise may finally be in the air. Some thoughts (including a Mellencamp cameo?) on the politics behind our budgetary fiasco — and why a win/win has been so elusive
A Bridge to Literacy
Only 17 percent of fourth graders read at grade level in Philadelphia. A Fairhill parent literary assistant program is slowly improving that — and providing a much-needed community resource
Partisanship Has No Place in College Loans
President Trump is rescinding loan forgiveness for people who he thinks flout his politics — including possibly Philly public school teachers. A longtime university president cries foul
Ideas We Should Steal: University Brains To Solve City Problems
City governments around the country have partnered with local researchers to find solutions to issues like traffic congestion and fighting fires. Why won’t Philly take advantage of our local colleges to do the same?
How the Hell Are Kids Going to Get to School?
The first round of SEPTA service cuts aligns with the start of the school year — seriously hampering back to school for thousands of students. Here are some ideas that could help
The Fight Over What Philly Teachers Are Teaching
A national media report last spring lambasted the School District’s social studies curriculum and its director for being anti-American, antisemitic and teaching kids to become social activists. What is really going on in Philadelphia’s classrooms?
Dear Harrisburg, Southeastern PA Wants our Tax Money Back
The debate over SEPTA funding has led at least one local legislator to suggest a radical approach to state governance
The Museum Will Welcome You Now
Three years into her tenure, Philadelphia Museum of Art Director/CEO Sasha Suda is reimagining the institution for a new age and a new population. Can she convince the city — and her colleagues — to get on board?
The New Urban Order: I Don’t Bike. But I Support Bike Lanes
What many Center City residents don’t understand
Business for Good: Hart of Catering & Cafe, a Haven for Healing
Every day, the owners of a Rittenhouse Square cafe practice gratitude for their journey through addiction and homelessness— by caring for Philadelphians going through the same
Citizen of the Week: Evelyn Ebo
With a little help from her friends, a professional dancer from Philadelphia has created a week-long summer boot camp that’s giving a boost to young Black and Brown dancers
What the SEPTA Saga has Revealed about Parker and Shapiro
The Mayor has been silent. The Governor is rallying the already converted. Whatever happened to preventing a crisis before it starts?
John Kruk, Philly Demigod
How the Phils’ yapper has, with every random observation, touched our soul
Can Pennsylvania Lead the AI Revolution?
The head of Drexel’s Metro Finance Lab says the Commonwealth has a huge opportunity to lead in this century’s railroad era. But will PA seize the moment?
That Time Ambassador David Cohen Agreed to Chair the Citizen’s Board
The civic giant and ubiquitous local doer advised Mayor Ed Rendell and Comcast’s Brian Roberts before becoming President Biden’s Ambassador to Canada. Here's why he’s made The Citizen his first new role since returning to Philly
Can Philly Become the First Major U.S. City to End Homelessness?
Yes, according to local experts. Here’s what it would take
How To Be Unemployed
A former U.S. Rep from Philadelphia shares, for the first time, his post-military unemployment story — and offers essential advice to anyone looking for work
Holding SEPTA Hostage
Republican leadership wants accountability when funding public transit, but not when it comes to fixing roads. Is that fair?
Saving Democracy by Canvassing … All the Time
The deep canvassers of Changing the Conversation Together have been able to turn out the vote before big elections. Could doing their work year-round boost civic engagement and voter turnout in the long term?
Isaac Saul Wants To UnTangle Your News
The South Philly journalist reaches 400,000 readers everyday with Tangle’s blend of media roundup, analysis and self-reflection. His goal? To help Americans see past their own biases
Citizens of the Week: Ginger Arts Center Student Organizers
The Chinatown hub launched to organize protest against the proposed Center City 76ers arena. Now it's a student-led third space for building community and having an impact
Philly Pays Millions to Pollute. Local Innovators Have a Better Way
A Texas-based corporation charges us $50 million a year to process trash and recycling. Could the City give a slice of that pie to local sustainable waste companies instead?
How John Middleton Made Me Proud to Be a Philadelphian
The Phillies owner’s emotional speech during the Dick Allen Hall of Fame Induction weekend was about forgiveness, redemption and a city coming to terms with its past. It was also a master class in civic leadership.
How To Really Run A City: One City’s Answer to Tribalism
Denver, Colorado Mayor Mike Johnston talks about coming together in divided times with former Philly Mayor Michael Nutter and former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed
The Grit Behind Greatness
Leadership lessons from the Super Bowl champion Eagles, just in time for fall camp
Citizen of the Week: Collie Turner, Heroic Gardener
The horticulturist created an urban garden on an abandoned Northeast Philly lot to heal the land and community members like her beloved late grandfather: veterans
Tackling Racial Bias in Home Appraisals
How a trio of real estate pros calling themselves the WEALTH Collective plans to solve Philadelphia’s race-based $57 billion gap in housing values
Shapiro’s Choice
Trump’s so-called Big Beautiful Bill contains a free money, opt-in school choice program for governors. Will ours redefine the politics of education for Democrats by taking advantage of it?
The Cursive Comeback
The PA House has voted to reinstate the teaching of old-fashioned penmanship in public schools. In the age of AI, is this the answer to our literacy crisis?
Business for Good: Committing to Kensington
Why one local biotech firm is right at home in Philly’s most beleaguered neighborhood
Big Rube’s Philly: Jordan Mays
The chef, brand marketer and photographer talks with an up-and-coming Northwest Philly carpenter about what it means to build something that lasts
2025 Rad Awards: Dr. Sarah McAnulty
Philadelphia squid biologist brings science to the masses — in classrooms, through burlesque performances, at forest meet-ups, and on telephone poles
Meet the 2025 Rad Award Nominees
Introducing the Philadelphia artists, activists, entrepreneurs, connectors and more we are honoring on July 30 — then meet them at the Rad Awards Party
The PPD Enrolls at Penn
A new master’s program will train members of the Philadelphia Police Department to become better managers and to innovate department-wide problem solving
Signs of the Times
Catching up with the anonymous artist MIW peppering Philadelphia with realistic street signs promoting pro-labor, pro-SEPTA, and anti-Trump messages
How to Get Rid of All Your Stuff
Two local nonprofits launched resourcePhilly, a “zero waste” search engine to help people donate or recycle their trash … just when we’re all thinking about what we throw away.
Mission Over Ego
The pooled-funding collaborative Repositioning Fund is helping nonprofits survive and grow by doing the hard thing — completely changing
The Politics of Trash
The drama of DC 33's eight-day strike leaves us with not only lingering stench, but also questions about city leadership
How to Really Run a City: Reformers are the Future of Cities
Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti joined former Philly Mayor Michael Nutter at this year’s United Way Summit for a special live podcast recording
2025 Rad Awards: Ryan Hammond
The head of the Eagles Autism Foundation has a simple secret for raising $10 million a year and getting elite players to bike 10 miles through Philly
Guest Commentary: Who’s Governing Philly’s Biggest Institutions?
And why should you care? Join the Women’s Nonprofit Leadership Initiative on October 26 to learn more about who sits on boards in Philly — and why we need more diversity
Citizens of the Week: Tom and Judy Kleinman
They produced Operation Mincemeat, Sunset Blvd. and Evita on Broadway. Now this eminently entrepreneurial Philadelphia couple plans to keep their love for theater alive in their hometown after they’re gone
What the World Doesn’t Get about Sickle Cell
Hannibal Collins lived with the unseen anemia for 37 years. It was only after his death that I discovered how little the world knows about it
Fun Things to Do in Philly this Week and Weekend
This week in Philly we have OURfest, YèShì Chinatown Night Market, Philly Music Fest, Liberation, Oktoberfest at the Armory, Jeff Goldblum, Lectures on Tap, and much much more
Guest Commentary: A Better Way To Help Artists … Make Art
A developer bets that artists make better work when they live with the marketplace. A university bets on the rent. A former UArts professor weighs in on which makes for a more vibrant arts scene
Guest Commentary: The Summer that Was a Test Kitchen
Our 250th celebration wasn’t a one-off, according to the head of Center City District. It was the start of a new way to enjoy our downtown