Philadelphia passes earlier curfew over objections from public

After listening to lots of people speaking out against it, Philadelphia City Council has approved an earlier curfew. 

The earlier curfew was requested by Mayor Michael Nutter to cut down on youth violence in the city.  It does not sit well with many residents who testified, such as Romica Williams.

“The police will use the curfew law to give illegal searches, treating young people like criminals,” said Williams. “I think the curfew law will create more harassment and police brutality and some young people have things to do past 9 p.m. like work.”

Activist and member of the group “MOVE” Pam Africa also testified.

“You know you are the city that dropped a bomb killing 11 men women and children so don’t you give a God [expletive] about children,” said Africa.

Mayor Nutter’s Chief of Staff Everett Gillison says the earlier curfew has already been in effect in Center City and University City through executive order.  He says it has worked to curb flash mob activity.

“It is not targeted at African Americans, Hispanics or even just males,” said Gillison.

Mayor Nutter is expected to sign the bill.