Sunrise Movement Activists Block 76ers Traffic to Demand $415 Million in City Spending
Organizers in Philadelphia targeted a $1.1 billion municipal surplus and specific budget allocations during a rush-hour protest.
By Nikolai Morales ·
Activists from the Philadelphia chapter of Sunrise Movement blocked a major highway exit ramp on a Tuesday evening to pressure local officials.
The group, operating under the coalition name Make Philly Affordable, demanded that the city allocate a specific portion of its current $1.1 billion surplus to working-class residents.
Erica Brown, a longtime organizer, dressed as a basketball hoop and held a sign reading "LeBron is a billionaire" near the Broad Street exit of Interstate 76.
About ten other members stood behind her holding a banner that read "Make Philly Affordable."
The blockade occurred during rush hour just before the Philadelphia 76ers played the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Traffic backed up for approximately 20 minutes, prompting drivers to honk and exit their vehicles to remove the demonstrators.
One driver, Orlando Monte, wearing an Amazon vest, stated he had to get to work and viewed the protest as an inconvenience to working people rather than a direct challenge to politicians.
No arrests were made during the initial roadblock, and police responded after a delay of more than 20 minutes.
The coalition, which includes groups such as Stand Up for Philly Schools and CAPhilly, has outlined seven specific demands totaling $415 million in city funds.
The largest request is $120 million annually for a new food assistance program aimed at restoring benefits for 50,000 residents losing support under federal changes.
Other demands include $90 million for rec center staffing, $80 million for libraries, and $50 million for energy programs.
The group also seeks the passage of a wealth tax proposed by Councilmember Kendra Brooks, along with $30 million for free SEPTA passes, $25 million for substitute teachers, and $20 million for affordable housing preservation.", "Giavanna Troilo, a fellow organizer, noted that the city accumulated its surplus through federal subsidies, higher taxes, and a smaller workforce during the pandemic era.", "Troilo said the group has increased its confrontational tactics after Mayor Cherelle Parker delayed a promised meeting following a 21-day hunger strike in May.", "The city's median household income is approximately $60,000, which is more than $20,000 below the national average.", "Nearly 20 percent of residents report insufficient access to food, according to a 2025 report from the Office of Homeless Services.",
