The mural of former Philadelphia Mayor Frank Rizzo that lives at 9th and Montrose in South Philly's Italian Market area has been a constant source of controversy since it was first commissioned back in the mid-90s. Before he was mayor, Rizzo was a notorious member of the Philadelphia Police Department, where he was criticized for deploying attack dogs on Temple students during a peaceful protest.



The presence of this mural (as well as the foreboding statue of Rizzo at 15th & JFK) not only reminds us of Rizzo's brutal legacy it also highlights the deep disconnect between the city we want and the unfortunate reality of the city that many of us have had.



Even Philadelphia's wonderful Mural Arts program is currently seeking input from citizens to help decide the fate of the Rizzo mural.



Enter Gritty, the Philadelphia Flyer's beloved, furry mascot. In the two weeks since his introduction, the city has fallen in love with Gritty and his goofy, slightly manic persona. Wild, ecstatic and a little rough around the edges, Gritty embodies the fighting spirit of our city and the joyous hope for its future. This is why we propose that the Frank Rizzo mural be replaced with a Mural of Gritty!



We need you to support, sign and SHARE this petition with the hopes that the Philadelphia Mural Arts program will honor the will of the people and replace Rizzo with a Mural that is aligned with the program's history of gifting our city with beautiful, uplifting works of public art.



Thank you!



Courtesy of Serious Rap Sh*t Podcast