We’re coming up on 40 years since the MOVE bombing in Philadelphia, the day a Philadelphia police department helicopter dropped a bomb on a row house. The bombing and the fire it set unfolded on live television. And even though eleven people were killed and hundreds were left homeless by the fires, the MOVE bombing has been largely forgotten. How did we collectively memory-hole an event this big? And what does that tell us about race and policing even today?
On this episode, we’re looking back at this forgotten cataclysm with two people whose lives have been shaped by that catastrophe.
Mike Africa Jr. is the author of, On A Move, Philadelphia’s Notorious Bombing and a Native Son’s Lifelong Battle for Justice.
Linn Washington is an investigative journalist and a professor of journalism at Temple University. He’s also the host of a new documentary podcast called, MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy. The podcast is a production of Temple University’s Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting, The Philadelphia Inquirer and Rowhome Productions. And check out these archival stories from the MOVE bombing.
This episode was produced by Xavier Lopez. It was edited by Courtney Stein. Our engineer was Kwesi Lee.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
