Philadelphia writer Robert Huber is in the hot seat.
Philadelphia Magazine's article series "Being White in Philly" by Huber discusses race relations in the city of Brotherly Love, from a strictly white perspective.
The backlash was immediate and harsh.
The magazine drew a firestorm of complaints from lawmakers and fellow journalists due to such a broad topic, and seemingly myopic, one-dimensional point of view.
"This month's Philadelphia Magazine cover story is just another example of an ongoing attack on Black Philadelphia," said Councilwoman Marian Tasco. "Considering the recent census, African Americans could continue to hold political power for years to come but if they remain economically disadantaged they will never be fully partners or independent.
Mayor Michael Nutter called the piece "disgusting," demanding its writers and editors be investigated by Philadelphia's human relations commission.
The article seeks to explain the complex race relations from a white perspective. The article "echoes the kind of let's have-a-frank -talk about race discussions.... suggesting Philadelphia's now-minority white population is too fearful of being labeled 'racist' to speak their minds," The Daily Morning News wrote on Monday.
The author/journalist Wynne Alexander is known for human rights and civil rights work. He challenged both the report's credibility and the publication's continued relevancy.
"This article signifies nothing. It proves nothing and it adds to the world's troubles," Alexander said. "We all need to communicate more and in better ways. This kind of irresponsible journalism and world citizenship makes things worse. And, frankly I'm surprised that Philadelphia Magazine would want to go back down these roads which have been so bumpy for their legacy in the past."
"There is no friction. I'm okay with my colleagues and what they have to say, and how they feel is utterly legitimate," Huber said. "You know, my piece is about conversation and dialogue and let's hear what people really think. So with that spirit, let's all talk. As you read, that was a decided frame and very open about that up. We decided to do a piece that looked at, from the view of white people, what's their engagement with Black folk and how's it going for them and what is it? So, obviously it was a conscious decision on to do that."
Philadelphia Magazine will see if the controversy settles down and its readership skyrockets. Philadelphia is one of America's most diverse cities.
A "Being in Philly" rally is planned for Wednesday at the Love Park in response to the cover story. "The goal is to have an intellectual dialogue and discourse that promotes a positive outcome and interactive cultural understanding," Chris Norris, a lead organizer said.
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