I was born and raised in Philadelphia, in the Mt. Airy neighborhood, and have traveled along Chew Avenue countless times throughout my life. Yet it wasn’t until about I was an adult that I learned who the street is actually named after: Benjamin Chew, a prominent colonial official and slave owner who once enslaved Richard Allen himself. This realization was striking. It makes little sense to continue honoring an enslaver with such a prominent place in our city. Instead, we should celebrate those who contributed positively to our history, like Richard Allen.

Richard Allen went on to become one of the most influential Black leaders in Philadelphia and indeed one of the most prominent Black figures in early American history. As the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a central figure in the city’s free Black community, Allen dedicated his life to justice and the liberation of his community.

Renaming Chew Avenue to Richard Allen Avenue would not only honor Allen's legacy but also align our city’s values with the progress we claim to champion today. This change would serve as a step toward acknowledging the historical injustices faced by Black Americans and celebrating the invaluable contributions they have made to our society. It should not need repeating—why does the city continue to honor a slave owner?

The movement to rename streets and landmarks that honor controversial historical figures is gaining momentum across the country. By joining cities like Denver and New Orleans, which have made similar changes, Philadelphia can demonstrate its commitment to learning from history and paving the way for a more inclusive and respectful community.

This is not just about changing a street name; it's about acknowledging our past and choosing to honor the individuals who embody the ideals we strive to uphold. Richard Allen is one such figure, and his story is interwoven with the very fabric of our city. By renaming Chew Avenue, we can make a powerful statement about the kind of city we are committed to becoming.

Please join me in this call to action to rename Chew Avenue in honor of Richard Allen. By signing this petition, you are supporting a necessary change that aligns our community with values of justice, recognition, and unity. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our city's history and future. Let's make this change together.

Anticipated Questions & Responses

Is this erasing history?

No. Renaming Chew Avenue isn’t about erasing history - it’s about how we choose to honor it. Benjamin Chew will remain part of the historical record. But street names are about recognition, and we should be thoughtful about who we elevate in our public spaces.

Why judge historical figures by today’s standards?

This isn’t about rewriting the past - it’s about making a present-day decision. Right now, we are choosing to honor an enslaver. We could instead choose to honor Richard Allen, whose life represents resilience, leadership, and a commitment to freedom and justice.

Won’t this lead to endless renaming?

Not necessarily. Cities make these decisions all the time, and each case can be considered on its own merits. What makes this one especially compelling is the direct connection between Chew and Allen.

Why not just add a new name somewhere else?

We should absolutely continue to recognize more figures like Richard Allen. But that doesn’t address the fact that we’re still honoring an enslaver on a major street. This is about making a meaningful change, not just adding another name.

Aren’t there bigger issues to focus on?
There are always bigger issues. But that doesn’t mean this one doesn’t matter. The names we see every day say something about what - and who - we value.