How Tsehaitu Abye is building civic power for Black immigrants in Philadelphia

Tsehaitu Abye knows that access to voting is not equal, and for many Black immigrant communities, it has never been. As a first-generation Ethiopian American organizer based in Philadelphia, she has spent over two decades working to close those gaps, helping communities not only show up at the polls but build lasting civic power.

“Public history must tell the truth” - As attempts to whitewash U.S. history grow nationwide, Philadelphia pushes back.

As a slavery exhibit was partially reinstated at the President’s House site, local voices say the struggle to preserve African American history continues.

Anthony “Ant” Rivera, flashes a warm smile and leans in for a tight hug. The 25-year-old filmmaker is revving up for a concert at Taller Puertorriqueño on Feb. 21 to fundraise for  the last leg of production on his film, “La Lengua del Tambor.” The film is an exploration of Afro-Puerto Rican history and identity through the practice of Bomba that simultaneously centers his roots in North Philadelphia. The event is an immersive cultural experience, bringing in local Puerto Rican vendors such as Amy’s Pastelillos and performers such as Los Bomberos de la Calle.

On Tuesday, December 2, five Philadelphia-based journalists took part in a panel discussion at Klein College, just moments after the celebration of the official launch of Temple University’s student chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. As several students aspiring to make their mark in the media industry sat in the audience, each of the professionals shared their own journeys and career paths.

NAHJ chapter launches at Temple University, providing new path of opportunities for aspiring Latine journalists and media professionals. The new NAHJ Temple chapter will serve to help support a stronger and more inclusive media landscape throughout the region, with the inclusion of Latine voices.

By Harold Jordan. July 22, 2025.

Honoring Disability Pride: A Decade of Fighting for Disability Rights in Pennsylvania. At the ACLU of Pennsylvania, our work in disability rights is part of a broader fight for justice that recognizes the interconnected issues of ableism, racism, and economic injustice.

By Alyssa Reynoso Morris, originally on HipLatina. May 22, 2025. 
As a Queer Black Latine award-winning children’s book author, public speaker, community organizer, and mother, Alyssa Reynoso Morris has spent her career advocating for equity, especially for Black, Brown, and immigrant families. As a mother to three, she’s also seen how financially overwhelming parenting in America can be. Child care in the U.S. is outrageously expensive: for Reynoso Morris, it’s $4,200 a month or $50,400 a year. Reynoso Morris discusses why is child care so unaffordable.

By Jensen Toussaint. April 23, 2025.

Documented redefines immigrant journalism by reporting with communities, not just about them. Launched in 2018, this NYC-based outlet publishes in 4 languages, tackling underreported issues like wage theft. 'Journalism is a public good,' says CSO Rebecca Neuwirth

Por Jennifer Hernandez. 3 de março, 2025.

Afro-Latines in the U.S. face unique challenges at the intersection of race, culture, and identity. A UCLA study reveals labor market disparities and anti-Black bias impacting this growing community. The study is intended to highlight the challenging labor market conditions for Afro-Latinx and understand their socioeconomic experiences by considering how gender, immigration status, national origin, ethnicity, and race intersect and shape those experiences. 

By Jensen Toussaint. 21 February, 2025.

Philadelphia’s Black business community is voicing concerns as the city prepares for the economic opportunities expected in 2026. With major events like the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and NCAA basketball tournaments set to take place in the city, Councilman Isaiah Thomas hosted a "Black Business Think Tank" to listen to these concerns and ensure Black entrepreneurs are prepared to seize these historic opportunities. The goal is to help Black businesses secure a significant share of the over $1 billion in economic opportunities anticipated for the city.

By Yashira Marie Rivera-Calero Special to Inti Media. February 05, 2025. 
Perfectionism can be paralyzing, but for Yashira Marie Rivera-Calero, Brené Brown’s The Gifts of Imperfection became a lifeline. In this deeply personal piece, Yashira shares her journey of overcoming self-doubt, embracing her multifaceted identity, and finding empowerment through creativity. From restoring a vintage kimono for a Grammy’s red carpet look to celebrating Black excellence and self-discovery, her story is a testament to the power of wholehearted living. Dive into her inspiring narrative of resilience, artistry, and the courage to be unapologetically yourself.

By Vicky Díaz-Camacho | Centro de Periodismo Investigativo January 23, 2025.

For more than 80 years, health experts, scholars, and community advocates have emphasized the dire need for better access to physicians and health centers for Puerto Rican Philadelphians. However, issues with timely doctor visits, preventative health, health insurance, and the lack of doctors from the community in North Philly remain.

By Tiffany Rivera. December 3, 2024.

Cantina La Martina hosted a meeting with local leaders to address safety, homelessness, and vandalism in Kensington, focusing on collaboration and resources to restore community pride.

By Nigel Thompson. November 11, 2024.

Alma Romero’s dream business, Alma del Mar, came to a heartbreaking end after a violent assault and a string of unaddressed crimes in South Philadelphia. From the emotional toll of the attack to the frustration with the police response, Alma’s story is one of resilience in the face of adversity. “How many times were you hit?” the officer asked—a question that shaped her path to justice.

By Camila Carolina Romero and Gabriela Watson-Burkett. November 3, 2024.

As the presidential election nears, Philadelphia's Indigenous community emphasizes affordable housing, land rights, and sovereignty. Despite historical voting advancements, Indigenous peoples remain underrepresented. The effects of colonization, poverty, and systemic inequities persist, highlighting the urgent need for policies that address their rights and living conditions.

By Jensen Toussaint. November 1, 2024.

The healthcare industry is essential for all communities, yet diverse groups remain underrepresented in its workforce. Despite 33% of U.S. nurses being Black, Asian, or Hispanic, these groups make up 39% of the population. Programs like Accesso Care are empowering immigrant CNAs to fill critical roles amidst a nursing shortage. By offering training and community support, they aim to create a compassionate, skilled workforce that reflects the diversity of the nation and addresses healthcare needs.