MOVE in Philly: Not Your Average Neighbors (Unless You Like Loud Bullhorns and Free Lectures on Veganism)
Hey there, history buffs and lovers of the bizarre! Today, we're diving into the story of MOVE, a Philadelphia group that would make even your nosiest next-door neighbor look tame. Buckle up, because this one's got everything: social justice, rooftop gardens, a whole lot of shouting, and a truly explosive ending (metaphorically... mostly).
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| What Was Move In Philadelphia |
Who Were MOVE?
MOVE (capital letters, very important) wasn't your typical club. Founded in the 1970s by John Africa, MOVE blended philosophies like Black liberation and living off the grid. Think vegan revolutionaries with a bullhorn. They set up shop in West Philly, living communally and expressing their views, let's say, enthusiastically. Their idea of a good time? Loud lectures about animal rights delivered at ear-splitting volumes. Needless to say, the neighbors weren't exactly fans.
MOVE and the PD: A Standoff for the Ages (with a Tragic Twist)
Things came to a head in 1978. A dispute with the police escalated into a full-blown standoff. Think "Die Hard" meets "Animal House," but way less Bruce Willis and way more throwing bricks. Sadly, the whole thing ended with a fire, the death of a police officer, and several MOVE members injured. It wasn't exactly a feel-good moment for the City of Brotherly Love.
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
The MOVE Bombing: When Things Went From Bad to Worse (to Unthinkable)
Fast forward to 1985. MOVE was back in their West Philly digs, and tensions were still high. Another standoff erupted, and this time, the police decided to take a... bold approach. They dropped a bomb – yes, a bomb – on the MOVE house. The result? A devastating fire that destroyed 61 homes and left hundreds homeless. It was a dark day for Philadelphia, and the MOVE bombing remains a controversial event to this day.
So, what was the deal with MOVE? They were a complex group with radical ideas, but their message about social justice and animal rights resonated with some. The way they went about expressing those ideas, however? Let's just say it wasn't exactly conducive to winning friends and influencing people (especially not the police).
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
Frequently Asked MOVE Questions (For the Curious, Not the Faint of Heart)
How to learn more about MOVE? Check out documentaries like "MOVE: Breaking the Silence" or books like "Living for the City: The Story of MOVE."
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How did MOVE support themselves? They sold their publications and sometimes worked odd jobs.
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How many people died in the MOVE bombing? Eleven people, including five children.
How did the MOVE bombing affect Philadelphia? It damaged the city's reputation and sparked outrage and protests.
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
How is MOVE remembered today? The MOVE bombing is a dark stain on Philadelphia's history, and MOVE's legacy is still debated.
MOVE may be gone, but their story is a reminder of the importance of peaceful dialogue and the devastating consequences of violence. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go find some earplugs. Those bullhorn lectures sound exhausting.
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