PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia City Council passed two resolutions on Thursday condemning the Trump administration over two different policies.
One resolution condemned deploying the National Guard in American cities. The other, sponsored by City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, criticizes what he called the “whitewashing” of American history by removing references to slavery from national parks, including the landmark President’s House on Independence Mall.
“This is an issue that’s very near and dear to me,” said Johnson. “I worked with Michael Coard and the Avenging the Ancestors Coalition to actually bring that exhibit to Independence Mall. It’s a project I’ve been a part of way before I became a city council person, so I remain committed to making sure the exhibit stays there.”
The city owns the land that the exhibit is on and leases it to Independence National Historical Park, so there may be legal ways to stop its anticipated removal. Visit Philadelphia has said it would find a new home for the materials if they’re removed. No changes to the exhibit have been ordered so far.
While the resolutions have no actual power, Johnson said it’s important for City Council to take a stand.
“Local government is on the front line when it comes to addressing all things coming out of Washington, D.C., that’s going to have a negative impact on our community, so we have to step up,” Johnson continued. “We have to be vocal. We have to use our platform as a bully pulpit for those most in need.”