Washington Post Lauds Philadelphia Forward's Use Of Technology

A cover story in Sunday's Washington Post highlighted the growing use of email for political communication and lauded Philadelphia Forward's successful use of the technology to inform Philadelphians and motivate them to take action.  As the article describes, the use of email and other web-based technology is an extremely cost effective way to communicate and to create conduits for action. 

Where individuals may not be willing or able to learn about an issue or to compose a personal letter to an elected official to express their views, they may educate themselves with online information or send an instant message with remarkable ease.  It is the exact same voice and passion, but without needless hurdles.  City residents may not have the ability to take off work to attend a City Council hearing, but they can – at any time of the night or day – learn about tax reform and send an email or fax to express their views.  Some politicians may not like the fact that they are less able to dictate exactly how they can communicate with their constituents, but it is time for everyone to recognize this mode of interaction as the remarkable public voice that it is.  (Full Article)

Philadelphia Forward has certainly been enthusiastic about the use of this remarkable information technology and the results – we have truly demonstrated that, given the opportunity, people will get involved in the push for change.  It is comical how many rumors I have heard about the supposed Philadelphia Forward "hidden agenda" to promote an individual candidate for Mayor, elect me as dog-catcher, or change the name of Broad Street.  We are working to promote positive policies for Philadelphia...and we will continue to do so until Philadelphia becomes the city we know it can be.  Having the recognition (in larger circles than here in our little burg) that Philadelphia Forward is accomplishing great things is very gratifying indeed.