It is deeply disappointing that anyone would attempt to turn the tragic death of 23-year-old Kada Scott into a debate about real estate.

As a member of City Council, my responsibility is and always has been to represent the interests of the people who call this community home. That is fundamentally different from the motivations of any developer or investor.

Every project that comes before my office receives careful consideration and must meet one essential test: Does the community support it? While others may want to relitigate old disputes, I believe our energy is better spent on the future — on healing, accountability, and justice for Kada Scott and her family.

This is a moment that calls for compassion, not opportunism.

Turning a tragedy into a business argument dishonors the pain of a family and distracts from the real crisis we face, which is gun violence and the urgent need for safety in our neighborhoods.

Let me clarify two points: Gentrification is not progress, and supporting diverse developers isn’t charity; it’s justice.

My duty as a councilwoman is to ensure that Black and Brown developers have fair and equal chances to shape the future of our neighborhoods. For too long, the opportunities to build and own in our communities have been controlled by a few, often leaving behind residents who have kept these neighborhoods alive for generations.

We can’t discuss revitalization without addressing representation. We can’t discuss development without focusing on equity. Opportunities for Black and Brown communities are vital for building Black and Brown wealth, the kind of intergenerational stability that keeps families connected and strengthens the entire city.

I support projects that create jobs, strengthen small businesses, expand affordable housing, and preserve the character of our neighborhoods.

Real progress comes when we invest in people, not just in property. It comes when we listen to neighbors, collaborate with faith leaders, and bring together agencies to tackle long-standing issues such as neglected or unsafe buildings.

For years, my office has championed efforts that reflect the best of Germantown and Northwest Philadelphia, expanding housing opportunities, revitalizing corridors, supporting entrepreneurs, and launching youth and violence-prevention programs.

As the councilwoman for the 8th District, my dedication remains unchanged: to advocate for responsible development, safer streets, and a city that prioritizes people over profit. We will continue building a Philadelphia where every family can live with dignity, security, and pride in the community they call home.