The Week in Philly: UPenn scrubs DEI footprint, federal workers take a stand and canceled plans

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — In the early days of President Donald Trump’s second term, the Philadelphia region feels the effects of his aggressive policy push. Broad-stroked attempts to slash the federal workforce, freeze state funding and eliminate DEI initiatives have all carried local consequences. What are they, and how are affected populations and communities fighting back?

Look back, look ahead, and get a better understanding of the stories shaping the Philadelphia region on “The Week in Philly” with Matt Leon and KYW Newsradio’s team of reporters. Listen on KYW Newsradio 103.9 FM Saturdays at 5 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Episodes are also available as a podcast or, you can check out individual segments below.

The deeper President Donald Trump gets into his second term, the more his administration appears poised to slash the federal workforce. Boasting one of the largest populations of government employees in the country, Philadelphia is feeling the ripple effects of these moves, but the city isn’t standing idly by. KYW Newsradio’s Mike DeNardo explains how people and communities impacted by recent layoffs are joining forces with elected officials to protest Trump’s purge.

Freeze more than $2 billion earmarked for Pennsylvania? Not so fast, Gov. Josh Shapiro told the President. The Democratic governor swiftly filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration hoping to give the Commonwealth access to its funds, an effort Shapiro said was ultimately successful. Which of Pennsylvania's programs and resources were threatened by Trump's actions? How did a trip to the White House help Shapiro’s cause? KYW Newsradio’s Tim Jimenez shares the details.

After President Donald Trump signed an executive order to end federal support for programs promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, the University of Pennsylvania scrubbed everything mentioning DEI from their website. A judge blocked enforcement of the order, but Penn’s diversity website has still been rebranded as “belonging.” KYW Newsradio’s Nigel Thompson attended a press conference where several city and state officials expressed outrage at the university’s actions.

One of Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker’s major initiatives has been to revitalize Kensington, cleaning up encampments and addressing the drug addiction crisis. One year into that initiative, public safety officials say they’ve made progress, but there’s still much more to be done. KYW’s City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb checks in.

Among the many celebration plans for America’s 250th birthday was a Children’s World Fair hosted by the Please Touch Museum, the Mann Center and the Philadelphia Zoo. However, those plans have been canceled due to lack of time and funding. KYW Newsradio’s Mike DeNardo explains what the big idea was and why it’s no longer happening.

The parade is done. The Eagles’ offseason is here. Where can Philadelphia sports fans turn to now for excitement? The Phillies are a good place to start. Despite last year’s disappointing finish, the club is ready to contend again in 2025, thanks to a solid pitching staff and veteran lineup. As for the Sixers, the vibes are way different. Amidst mounting injuries and lifeless performances, their much anticipated season looks more and more like it will end on the road to nowhere. KYW Newsradio’s sports duo Matt Leon and Dave Uram discuss.