Author

Michael Coard

Michael Coard

Opinion contributor Michael Coard, an attorney and radio host, is a columnist for the Philadelphia Tribune. His work appears on Tuesdays on the Capital-Star’s Commentary Page. Readers may follow him on Twitter @michaelcoard.

COMMENTARY
Protesters during the 2020 George Floyd protests in Philadelphia (Photo courtesy of Michael Coard).

Philly’s settlement a win for protesters; police reform fight continues | Michael Coard

By: - March 26, 2023

This was a 'truly unique civil rights lawsuit' because it sought more than mere money.

COMMENTARY

Shapiro’s support for Cheyney Univ. is welcome — and badly needed | Michael Coard

By: - March 12, 2023

The HBCU needs equitable -- not just equal -- funding to make up for decades of racist underfunding

COMMENTARY
Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro, joined by members of his administration and business leaders, signed an executive order on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, to establish the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity. (Capital-Star photo by Cassie Miller)

Pa. Gov. Shapiro evolves, seeks to abolish fallible and irreversible death penalty | Michael Coard

By: - February 24, 2023

Shapiro's view on capital punishment has evolved, and a columnist's view of him has too. Here's why.

COMMENTARY

When it comes to racism in Pa., not much has changed | Michael Coard

By: - February 10, 2023

A look at the commonwealth's history reveals a long and troubling past.

COMMENTARY
The Union League building on South Broad Street in Philadelphia (VisitPhiladelphia/The Philadelphia Tribune).

Black members of Philadelphia’s Union League face a test | Michael Coard

By: - January 31, 2023

Are they scared and selfish? Or are they courageous self-respecting African Americans?

COMMENTARY

Driving while Black? Make sure you avoid these common traps | Michael Coard

By: - January 10, 2023

A city law backed by Councilmember Isaiah Thomas offers equality and protection for Black drivers.

COMMENTARY
Africatown logo, left, Voffee Jabateh, CEO of African Cultural Alliance of North America/ACANA, right (ACANA/Philadelphia Tribune).

Philly’s Africatown could be resurrection of Tulsa’s ‘Black Wall Street’ | Michael Coard

By: - December 13, 2022

I'll expect to see you there every day, supporting SW Philly's renaissance.

COMMENTARY
Replica of the United States Bill of Rights (Getty Images).

The 13th Amendment didn’t end slavery – but it did fuel mass incarceration | Michael Coard

By: - December 6, 2022

Black people are still being enslaved in 21st century America. This is how

COMMENTARY

A reminder for your holiday table: Thanksgiving celebrates a racist genocide | Michael Coard

By: - November 22, 2022

The tragic residue of the horrific plight that began 401 years ago continues to exist in 2022.

COMMENTARY

Ten good reasons why Black Pennsylvanians should vote on Nov. 8 | Michael Coard

By: - November 1, 2022

You must vote and you must encourage Black freedom-loving family members, relatives, friends, associates, neighbors and co-workers to vote.

COMMENTARY

Republicans are targeting innocent Black voters. Here’s how | Michael Coard

By: - October 26, 2022

There's a new Jim Crow when it comes to voting. Here's how to make your voice heard at the polls.

COMMENTARY

How Octavius Catto is keeping up the fight for Black voting rights | Michael Coard

By: - October 4, 2022

A century-and-a-half after his death, the Philadelphia icon's inheritors are continuing his fight.