A Love Letter to the City I Was Taught to Hate

I learned to hate Philadelphia before I ever saw it. It started with the Eagles (that was easy growing up in Washington territory). But the hatred went deeper, wrapped up in warnings about dirty streets and dangerous corners. A ready-made opinion I never questioned.

Hate sounds like such a strong word, but growing up as a Washington sports fan, it’s understandable. Like being taught to hate competition within the NFC East, my immediate displeasure towards Philadelphia became instinctive.

Philadelphia is dirty. Philadelphia is unsafe. Philadelphia is grimy. Philadelphia is mean. Trust me, the last place you want to move is Philadelphia.

I moved there anyway, eight years ago this March to pursue my dreams. Dreams that I was told were pointless, useless, and in need of course correction.

Selfie with Eagles artwork in Rittenhouse Square