Much is made, as it should be, of the violence epidemic plaguing Philadelphia. While city officials believe the crime rate is slightly lower than it was last year, that is still not a significant improvement for a city that saw over 500 murders last year. And while there have been myriad ideas on how to stem the violence, very few have mentioned the most prominent root cause: poverty.
As part of our Every Voice, Every Vote coverage funded by the Lenfest Institute, Hall Monitor recorded interviews with each other major mayoral candidates, which began with one simple question: In your administration, how will you handle poverty?
We received answers as varied as the candidates themselves, but now one interview matters most-Democratic Nominee Cherelle Parker. While other ideas will likely be included in Parker’s anti-poverty plans (including ideas offered by her former opponents), it is crucial to understand how Parker is framing the problem and what her early thoughts are on pulling the poorest big city in America to a more equitable future.
Our reporters sit through hours of city council meetings, dig through piles of documents, and ask tough questions other media overlook. Because we’re committed to addressing Philadelphia’s poverty crisis — and challenging those who sustain it. If you think this work is important too, please support our journalism.
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