New podcast explores Philadelphia’s decision to bomb the MOVE rowhouse in 1985 and its tragic consequences.
On May 13, 1985, a controversial decision by the Philadelphia authorities led to a catastrophic event that resulted in the loss of 11 lives, including five children, and caused extensive destruction in the West Philadelphia area. This tragic incident involved the dropping of a satchel bomb on the roof of a rowhouse occupied by MOVE, a radical Black-led group advocating for back-to-nature lifestyles. The event not only shocked the local community but also significantly impacted the city’s historical narrative.
Yvonne Latty, the director of Temple University’s Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting, has expressed concern over the lack of awareness regarding this pivotal moment among Philadelphians, particularly younger generations. Many young adults surveyed by Latty had never heard of MOVE or the bombings. This gap in historical knowledge has motivated her to initiate a project aimed at uncovering the layers of this tragic event.
In August, Latty began developing a six-part podcast titled “MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy,” in collaboration with The Inquirer. This series will explore the complex causes and consequences of the bombings through a blend of interviews with MOVE members, local residents, and journalists who covered the chaos as it unfolded. The podcast is designed to provide an in-depth look at events leading to the bombing and the aftermath, including the fire that engulfed the neighborhood, which city officials allowed to burn uncontrolled for an extended period.
Listeners can anticipate the podcast’s launch on April 22, featuring a richly woven narrative led by Temple professor Linn Washington Jr. Listeners will hear from a range of voices including those of former Mayor Frank Rizzo, who opposed MOVE vehemently, and Wilson Goode, the mayor who sanctioned the bombing. The podcast will also include previously untapped audio materials, such as recordings made by former Inquirer reporter Maida Odom during the event, capturing the raw urgency and danger present during that time.
Latty highlights the psychological toll that journalists covering such traumatic events experienced, a factor that has often been overlooked in discussions surrounding the incident. The trailer for the podcast is already available on The Inquirer’s platform, and new episodes will be released each Tuesday starting April 22.
This initiative not only aims to spark conversations about a dark chapter in Philadelphia’s history but also seeks to educate the public on the myriad implications of state actions against marginalized communities. Audience members can subscribe to “MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy” on platforms such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts, ensuring that this vital story reaches a broad audience and encourages a renewed understanding of its historical significance.
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