Opinion
109 results
Page 1
Seven historic Philly civil rights activists who demand your solidarity today
When we stand up for justice, we don’t stand alone: now and throughout history
Solidarity doesn’t just mean supporting justice today. It means honoring the work of past activists and realizing that we stand with them. Alaina Johns asks if we will despair, or if we’ll continue their work.
Editorials
8 minute read
A Valentine’s Day counter-romance roundup
Eight media picks to explore love outside of sex, romance, and marriage
Three hundred and sixty-four days a year, most of society puts romance above any other kind of relationship. Then, on Valentine’s Day, the message gets even harder to escape. Alaina Johns loves these alternatives.
Editorials
5 minute read
What to do if you’re grieving on Valentine’s Day
Tips for navigating loss as everyone celebrates love
Valentine’s Day can bring romance, tenderness, and fun, but it can also be a painful time if you’re experiencing grief. Constance Garcia-Barrio connects with Philly grief experts and resources to help you through this day and every day.
Features
6 minute read
If it "didn’t accomplish anything" last time, why do I keep marching?
“We’re gonna keep on moving forward”
Anndee Hochman has spent years protesting for human rights. This year, some people are discouraged. A friend told her it doesn't make a difference. So Anndee shares the reasons she isn't going to stop marching.
Essays
5 minute read
Remembering Carrie Gorn, Philly theater publicist extraordinaire
The woman who powered Philly theater from behind the scenes
For more than 10 years, theater critic Cameron Kelsall heard from publicist Carrie Gorn each week, tirelessly pitching clients’ work with her distinctive joy for the art form. Here at BSR, it’s painful to imagine our job without her.
Essays
4 minute read
Can the Eagles’ 2025 Super Bowl game make Philly feel like home for all of us?
The narratives Philly loves—and the ones we escape
Kyle V. Hiller's relationship with sports has always colored his relationship with Philly. We're a city of contradictions, always fighting that not-good-enough narrative. What can we learn about our city in the Eagles' latest shot at the Super Bowl?
Editorials
6 minute read
Six reasons my friends aren’t calling Congress, DEBUNKED
If you hate picking up the phone, these tips are for you
This is no time to wring your hands. If you care about US democracy and its role in our cultural sector, it’s time to act. For some people, that means calling Congress for the first time. Alaina Johns has tips.
Editorials
5 minute read
Remembering beloved WRTI jazz announcer Bob Perkins
The coolest cat in the world
Composer Kile Smith worked with Bob Perkins in the studio at WRTI. He remembers the legendary Philly jazz announcer as an unwitting mentor who imparted the knowledge and the feeling of great music for 25 years at the mic.
Essays
5 minute read
Philadelphia City Council prepares for the “lived nightmares” of the new Trump administration
Will Philly stand as a Sanctuary City in the MAGA era?
Two days after Trump was inaugurated again, City Council held a hearing on how Philly can protect vulnerable residents from the new administration, drawing testimony from civil-rights advocates. Alaina Johns tuned in.
Editorials
6 minute read
Living in America today feels like having a mental illness. Here’s how to protect your sanity.
Symptoms of humanity
Coping with fear of disasters, irrational thoughts, constant crises, and crushing sadness is just an ordinary day in America. Folks who have been in psychiatric treatment have always known how this feels. Alaina Johns has survival tips.
Editorials
6 minute read