Peaceful Protest Is Not a Crime – Denounce May Day Arrests

I am writing as a concerned Philadelphia resident deeply disturbed by the arrests of peaceful protesters during the May Day demonstration on May 1st, 2025. While the rally brought together thousands in a powerful show of solidarity—including a speech by Senator Bernie Sanders—the decision to arrest 70 individuals for a peaceful sit-in at Broad and Vine stands in stark contrast to the spirit of the event and the values our city claims to uphold. This protest, themed “For the Workers, Not the Billionaires,” was an exercise of our First Amendment rights. These arrests undermine those rights and set a dangerous precedent. I am especially concerned by reports and video footage indicating that a disproportionate number of those arrested were Black and people of color. This stands in painful contrast to previous protests, like the Hands Off demonstrations in April, which saw no arrests despite similar turnout and peaceful conduct. Why is there a difference in policing when people of color lead or are visibly present in such protests? Effective crowd control in Philadelphia must not come at the cost of civil liberties. Arresting peaceful citizens—especially in a city with a long tradition of activism—sends the message that public dissent is unwelcome, particularly when expressed by marginalized communities. I urge your office to: - Publicly denounce the arrests of peaceful protesters at the May Day rally. - Ensure all charges are dropped for nonviolent demonstrators. - Commit to equitable, non-discriminatory policing practices for all public gatherings. - Protect the rights of Philadelphia residents to organize, speak out, and advocate for justice without fear of retaliation. I—and many others—will be watching to see whether our city chooses silence, or stands with its people.