The Philadelphia chapter of the NAACP recently announced that they’ll be supporting the 76ers’ in their move to build an arena in Center City.
According to the civil rights organization, the arena’s creation could potentially boost the Philadelphia Black community, particularly in terms of new jobs.
The 76ers have also reportedly previously said that they would support the Black community by having Black-owned businesses supply 40% of the concession stand products. Black-owned contractors and developers will also reportedly be recruited during the arena’s construction process.
The newest area, estimated to cost at least $1.55 billion, would be part of the Fashion District Mall and on Market Street. A final date for its creation hasn’t been announced yet. The sports team is also currently researching the economic impact of the new project.
With the latest idea, NAACP Philadelphia president Christina Hicks is predicting that the arena may lead to new chances.
The NAACP Philly branch announced on Tuesday it will back the 76ers' plan to build a new arena in Center City.
— CBS Philadelphia (@CBSPhiladelphia) May 7, 2024
"This presents a significant opportunity for individuals in underserved communities to access meaningful employment." https://t.co/ewNbJbZyqd
“This presents a significant opportunity for individuals in underserved communities to access meaningful employment, economic stability and a pathway to success,” said Hicks per CBS News.
Currently, the Philadelphia workforce is composed mainly of Black adults. Per the city’s Workforce Diversity Profile & Annual Report, overall, Black adults make up approximately 40.4% of the city’s total population as the second largest demographic in Philadelphia; white adults make up approximately 43.6% of the city.
Of the entire workforce, Black adults lead all other demographics, composing approximately 48.2% of the entire employed population; white people made up approximately 38.6% of the workforce as the second largest demographic.
The current percentage of Black Americans in the Philadelphia workforce marks an increase from the previous year; in 2021, they composed approximately 48.1% of all workers.
The number is expected to continue growing. Black adults made up 55.6% of new hires, nearly double the percentage of white adults, who composed only 23.1% of the newer employees.
“Having a seat at the table allows this organization to advocate for equitable opportunities and inclusive growth,” said Hicks per the Philadelphia Tribune. “Our branch is even more committed to promoting greater access to new economic opportunities and growing wealth for our community, just as much as we fight to reform criminal justice, increase educational outcomes, encourage better election participation and secure, affordable and decent housing.”
