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

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

Photo Essay: Fab Youth Philly’s Play Captains

42 teens ran neighborhood play spaces around Philly this summer, engaging younger children while learning to be leaders themselves. Here, a look at some of the joy they shared.

By Theo Wyss-Flamm

The Spectacular Philly Hip-Hop Artist You Never Heard of

Logan-born poet / musician Khemist is one of the most gifted artists Philly has produced this century. We just don’t know it yet.