Dozens gather on Osage Avenue to commemoratemark 40 years since the MOVE bombing.

On the solemn anniversary of one of Philadelphia’s most tragic events, approximately fifty individuals gathered at the intersection of 63rd Street and Osage Avenue. Despite the light rain, this gathering served as a poignant reminder of a day that forever altered the city’s history. The memorial featured the recitation of eleven names, paying tribute to those who lost their lives during a catastrophic police confrontation with the Black-led back-to-nature group known as MOVE.

The event commemorated the events of May 13, 1985, when after a lengthy standoff, the Philadelphia Police Department, with assistance from the FBI, dropped a bomb on a MOVE residence. The ensuing blaze resulted in the destruction of several city blocks, claiming the lives of eleven individuals, including five children. This incident has since remained a deeply controversial point in Philadelphia’s history, with many questioning the actions taken by law enforcement and the city’s government officials.

The operation’s scale and the military-grade equipment utilized by police during the confrontation have drawn criticism. Notably, the absence of any criminal accountability for the officials involved has contributed to ongoing discussions about systemic violence and the consequences of excessive force. It was not until 2020, decades after the bombings, that the Philadelphia City Council formally apologized, instituting May 13 as a day of observation and reflection.

Founded in 1972 by Vincent Leaphart, who adopted the name John Africa, MOVE was characterized by its radical beliefs and lifestyle, which included principles of a raw-foods diet and a profound concern for animal rights. As the group established itself in the Powelton Village neighborhood, they became notorious for their confrontational stance against city authorities, leading to a series of violent encounters, including a shootout in which a police officer was killed.

In the aftermath of the bombing, surviving members of MOVE have campaigned for the release of their imprisoned counterparts while keeping the memory of the victims alive. Controversies around MOVE have persisted, including recent accusations of abuse within the group and revelations concerning mismanagement of the remains of bombing victims by city officials.

Today, Mike Africa Jr., the son of two members of the MOVE Nine, has launched a campaign to purchase the site of the former MOVE home, which has become a point of focus for memorialization efforts. He seeks to raise 0,000 to regain ownership of the property, emphasizing a community-driven approach to justice and commemoration for the events of that fateful day. As he strives to reclaim Osage Avenue, Africa has already garnered more than ,000 in support.

This ongoing movement illustrates a renewed commitment among community members to confront the historical injustices of the past while fostering a stronger future. The names of the eleven victims were repeated in memorial as a testament to their lasting impact on the city and a reminder of the importance of accountability and justice in the face of tragedy.

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