Philadelphia, September 14, 2023 – Cherelle Parker, the Democratic Nominee for Mayor of Philadelphia, released the following statement in response to the Philadelphia City Council voting to prohibit drug consumption sites.
“Today’s near-unanimous vote in City Council is a victory for all Philadelphians. I stand with the members of City Council who made their constituents’ voices heard loud and clear: Drug consumption sites are not the answer to this crisis.
“I’d like to thank Councilmember Quetcy Lozada for her courageous leadership focusing on the real life, lived experience of the people and families most affected by opioid addiction. Like me, she has chosen to focus on providing long-term housing, treatment, and recovery for those who struggle with addiction, homelessness, and/or mental and behavioral health issues.
“This is just the first step. If the people choose me as their next mayor in the November election, I will look forward to convening state, federal and local partners to address this crisis. This will be a ground-up approach, and today’s council vote protects people and communities against a policy disconnected from the people and neighborhoods in our city.
