Protect First Amendment Rights in Philadelphia Protests

I write as a concerned citizen who strongly supports the First Amendment and values peaceful protest as a pillar of democracy. In light of reports from the June 10 demonstration protesting ICE operations in Center City—during which fifteen people were arrested, police say two officers and two protesters were injured—I urge you to investigate the events with full transparency and accountability. While the Philadelphia Police Department has stated that “every use of force has been documented” and that the PPD “supports the public's right to lawful, peaceful protest” 6abc.com, many details remain unclear: - What were the specific criteria used to determine “disorderly conduct” vs. legitimate peaceful protest? - Who within the city authorized the escalation tactics—such as tactical arrests, kettling, or physical restraint of demonstrators? - What safeguards are in place to prevent excessive force? As a resident of this city and a stakeholder in its democratic health, I respectfully ask you to: - Commission an independent review (e.g., by the city’s civilian oversight board or an outside civil liberties group) into the methods used to disperse and arrest protesters on June 10. - Require public disclosure of policy guidelines, arrests vs. citations, and officer use-of-force documentation related to that event. - Issue clear guidance and training updates to the Police Department regarding best practices for peaceful protest response, de-escalation protocols, and crowd containment methods. - Ensure support services (mental health, legal, and medical) are available to protesters, legal observers, and bystanders affected by these events. As a voter and member of this community, I will be closely observing how Philadelphia stands for—or stands against—the fundamental right to protest without fear. Thank you for your service and your commitment to justice.