POWER Interfaith Responds to the Halting of 76ers Arena Project: A Call for Accountability & Partnership
Philadelphia, PA (January 13, 2025)
In a striking development, the proposed 76ers arena in Center City has been halted, marking a moment of relief for countless Philadelphians who stood united against this project. While this decision signals a pause in a contentious chapter for our city, it also serves as a clarion call for elected officials to prioritize the needs of their constituents over the interests of billionaires and corporations.
POWER Interfaith, representing 50 congregations across Philadelphia, has consistently advocated against an arena in the heart of our city, and we are glad to see this come to fruition today. We specifically applaud the tireless efforts of Chinatown residents, grassroots organizations, and community leaders who rallied against this project. We remain steadfast in our solidarity with Chinatown and every neighborhood threatened by exploitative development.
Our collective organizing is a testament to the strength of multiracial, intergenerational coalitions that fight for the soul of our city.
This decision reinforces what we have always known: when communities organize, we win. But this moment is not one for gloating; it is a time for reflection and renewed commitment to the pressing challenges our city faces.
The abrupt halt of the arena project exposes the harm of backroom deals and a rushed legislative process. It is a reminder to Mayor Cherelle Parker and City Council that the real work lies not in appeasing billionaires but in addressing the systemic issues that impact everyday Philadelphians. The city’s housing crisis and the looming threat of gentrification in every neighborhood demand immediate attention. Now is the time to prioritize solutions that uplift our communities rather than displace them.
“This decision underscores the importance of listening to the voices of constituents,” said Rev. Dr. Gregory Edwards, Executive Director of POWER Interfaith. “For too long, development in Philadelphia has been dictated by the interests of the wealthy few, leaving hardworking families and marginalized communities to bear the brunt of rising rents, property taxes, and displacement. We stand ready to partner with our elected officials to forge a new path forward—one rooted in justice, equity, and transparency.”
The halting of the arena project is not the end of this conversation but a pivotal moment to redefine how our city grows and who it serves. POWER Interfaith is committed to working alongside our elected officials, faith leaders, and community members to ensure that Philadelphia becomes a city where justice and equity guide every decision, and not the interests of billionaires.
The Bible teaches us to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8). We call on our city’s leadership to embody these principles as we move forward together. The people of Philadelphia deserve nothing less.
In solidarity,
POWER Interfaith