Statement from Councilman Kenyatta Johnson (2nd District) on the discovery of a noose hanging from a tree in Southwest Center City:
PHILADELPHIA — July 7, 2017 — “Earlier today, a noose was found hanging from a tree in my district, near the corner of 18th and Lombard Streets. This cannot be construed as anything but an act of racial terrorism. Lynching is a symbol of racial violence with a longstanding, ugly, and ongoing role in American society. Unfortunately, Philadelphia is no exception. Just this week, a federal employee in Philadelphia was caught on surveillance video in the act of tying a noose and leaving it for a black co-worker. Last fall, black freshmen at the University of Pennsylvania were targeted for a lynching-themed online messaging group. And the Southern Poverty Law Center lists Pennsylvania as a leading hub for hate groups, with seven operating actively in Philadelphia alone. The recent emboldening of racial hatred is a deplorable and unacceptable trend, and I will do everything in my power to fight it. This spring, I introduced an enhancement to Philadelphia’s ethnic intimidation ordinance, which Council passed unanimously and Mayor Kenney signed publicly last month. I will continue to speak up for Philadelphians targeted for hate and work to ensure they are free from violence and intimidation. In the meantime, detectives are investigating the incident thoroughly and I urge anyone with information to contact the police.”
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Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, a former Pennsylvania State Representative, represents the 2nd Council District which includes parts of Center City, South Philadelphia, and Southwest Philadelphia. More information at phlcouncil.com/KenyattaJohnson
