Letters to the Editor | June 30, 2023

It is disturbing to learn that more than $280 billion in taxpayer money was stolen by fraudsters during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the criminals are ultimately at fault, it is no mystery who in the government was so careless with our money. There is no doubt who is to blame because he made sure his name appeared prominently on each government relief check. This malfeasance was brought to us by President Donald J. Trump.

Stefan Keller, Huntingdon Valley

Medgar Evers was an iconic figure whose indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication continue to inspire generations. As we reflect on the legacy of this remarkable civil rights leader 60 years after his death, we are reminded of the profound impact he made in the struggle against racial discrimination and the quest for a more equitable society. Evers was born on July 2, 1925, in Decatur, Miss., during a time of pervasive racial segregation and inequality. Growing up in the Jim Crow era, he was only 12 years old when he saw a family friend lynched. These early experiences ignited a fire within him, propelling him toward a life devoted to the fight for civil rights.

As an influential field secretary for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Evers tirelessly worked to challenge the systemic oppression faced by African Americans in Mississippi. He played a pivotal role in organizing boycotts, voter registration drives, and peaceful demonstrations. Like many of the civil rights leaders of that era, Evers understood the power of the vote and the pathway voter participation provides for persecuted communities. On June 12, 1963, Evers was assassinated in front of his home. His death galvanized the civil rights movement, fueling a renewed determination to dismantle segregation and secure equal rights for all. His murder contributed to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Omar Sabir, city commissioner, Philadelphia

Investing in young people should be at the core of our work to spark economic development, reduce poverty and crime, and improve educational outcomes in Philadelphia. That’s why the WorkReady summer youth employment program is critical. A significant challenge for our youth is a lack of equitable employment opportunities, especially in Black and brown neighborhoods. WorkReady can be life-changing, and the benefits extend beyond a paycheck. WorkReady helps youth develop the soft skills necessary for success in a work environment, connects them with mentors, and guides behavior away from risky activities. Early work experience has been shown to have positive long-term consequences, such as boosting economic, academic, and health outcomes.

Our business community, our schools, and our city government must be single-mindedly focused on creating opportunities for success and growth for our young people. Every employer in this city should be part of WorkReady in some way. As we prepare to kick off WorkReady for summer 2023, the Philadelphia Youth Network is on track to employ 8,000 individuals. Let’s work together to continue expanding the bright possibilities for our young people through early employment.

Wendy-Anne Roberts-Johnson, president and CEO, Philadelphia Youth Network

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