Activist Philmore Phillip challenges town’s commitment to racial equity
June 17, 2021
The Daily Chronicle
Bob Holmes
Philmore Phillip II, a former METCO student at Joshua Eaton Elementary School in Reading, reflects on the school’s namesake, which honors a family that owned slaves. During a recent interview, Phillip, now leading CATO - The Coalition of Us, expressed that while he believes the school’s name should change, the decision rests with the town of Reading. Phillip, who participated in a Reading Rally for social justice a year ago, emphasizes the need for Reading to confront its racial issues, citing the town’s lack of diversity and historical ties to slavery. He highlights the absence of Black educators during his 12 years in the Reading school system and points out missed opportunities to hire people of color, such as the recent decision to hire a white principal over a qualified Black candidate for Joshua Eaton.
Phillip continues to challenge Reading’s leadership and calls for change, asserting that the town needs to acknowledge its past, including its association with slavery, and actively work towards a more inclusive community. He mentions the Bill Russell Project, seeking an apology from the town to the NBA legend Bill Russell for the racism that led him to leave Reading. Despite his critiques, Phillip expresses genuine love for the town and its potential for positive transformation, urging Reading to make tangible changes to policies, school names, and community practices as a true apology for past injustices.
