Say asomething short and sweet here

It is our collective responsibility to fight for a healthy, livable city now so that current and future generations can thrive. That means not only addressing the climate crisis through bold transitions to green energy, but also protecting communities most harmed by extreme weather events and toxins in our built environment.

In my first term in City Council, I led the charge to protect nearly 100 community gardens in working class communities of color from being auctioned off, creating clear pathways for community ownership. These community gardens were built on lots that the city had sold off and left vacant. Then, community members began reclaiming the land and caring for these lots across the city, transforming them into urban oases, safe play spaces, and small farms. And now, these communities will have access to the land for generations to come.

Protecting community gardens in working class communities of color is not only about land sovereignty and beautifying our city, but is a critical strategy in reducing violence and addressing the life-threatening effects of the climate crisis. When we protect community-run green spaces, we reduce dangerously high temperatures in the summer and improve air quality in communities with high rates of pollution and asthma. And research is clear: safe, well-lit, well-maintained green spaces reduce gun violence. That’s why during every budget cycle in my first-term, I advocated for increased investments in cleaning and greening neighborhoods most impacted by violence, and it’s why I will continue fighting for the vibrant, healthy communities we all deserve in my second term.

It’s clear that any comprehensive response to the climate crisis must include transforming our built environment and working with state and federal partners to leverage investments in the communities that need it most. We must aggressively pursue a transition to green energy at all levels of government, and that means building high-quality, green, affordable housing, expanding bike lanes and affordable public transit to reduce our reliance on cars, and ensuring our public buildings are well-suited for the twenty-first century. And there is no greater need for green investments than in our school facilities. With school after school closing in Philadelphia due to toxic building conditions, our students and school staff can not wait any longer. That’s why I have worked closely with my Council and statewide partners to fight for funding for school facilities improvements and ensure the School District delivers a real plan for families impacted by school closures. We must rid our public schools of the lead and asbestos that poisons our children and transform our public schools into world-class, sustainable, safe learning facilities. 

In my second term I will work tirelessly with my Council colleagues and legislators in Harrisburg to demand an aggressive transition to green energy that creates good, union jobs. We can’t wait for action from the federal government – Philadelphia must take measures into our own hands.