View From The Streets

For the first time in three years, the city is poised to start a new year with fewer than 500 fatalities, thanks to a renewed focus on the most violent neighborhoods. But the gunshots, sirens, and recurring cycles of mourning persist

By Mensah M. Dean

Critical Race Theatre

Former Roots Crew member Dice Raw first made his name chronicling his Philadelphia history through music. Now, as head of Philly’s legendary New Freedom Theatre, he’s telling the stories of Black Americans throughout all our history

By James Peterson

“We Buy Houses.” Philadelphians Lose Out.

According to a new report by Drexel Metro Finance, investors prey on homeowners in distressed communities. That could mean hundreds of millions of dollars lost citywide

By Bruce Katz, Ben Preis, Kevin Gillen

Can We Just Rename Taney Street, Already?

A dedicated group of citizens has spent three years trying to change the name of the tiny Philadelphia street that honors a big non-Philadelphian racist. Why won’t their Councilmembers let it happen?

By Lauren McCutcheon

Citizens of the Week: Brent Johnstone and Akeiff Staples

We’ve all heard the research: Early literacy is critical to success. Two fathers do their part to help Philadelphia’s early learners develop a lifelong love of reading — and of themselves

By Johann Calhoun

Ideas We Should Steal: Get the DOJ to Investigate Illegal Dumping

An ongoing federal investigation into illegal dumping in poor, majority Black neighborhoods in Houston is already cleaning things up. Could it happen in Philadelphia?

By Nick Russo

Development for Good: Kensington Corridor Trust

An innovative model for community-business development provides opportunity for current and new residents to thrive in a Philadelphia neighborhood experiencing both investment and crisis

By Christina Griffith

The Citizen Recommends: Leon H. Sullivan Month

This October, Philadelphia celebrates what would have been the 100th birthday of the Nicetown-Tioga pastor and champion of global civil rights and Black entrepreneurship

By Karen J. Hamilton