There were several politicians who took up the fight against the mayor’s land bank bill, but Pittsburgh City Councilman Rev. Ricky Burgess became the catalyst to stop the land confiscation bill and to replace it with a Land Bank bill that afforded the citizens the opportunity to participate.
It was as if Rev. Burgess heeded the Master’s call when he said “feed my sheep.” The Reverend clearly understood that meant enlightening the people by helping them understand that they have every right to participate in the best use of the land.
I never heard Rev. Ricky Burgess more passionate than he was the night he spoke in Central Baptist Church to 700 people. There was the true presence of people power as the Reverend clarified for some, informed others and made it crystal clear to all in attendance that collectively we can make things happen that will effect positive change.
It was also a rewarding feeling to see Pittsburgh City Councilmen Daniel Lavelle and Rev. Ricky Burgess on the same page.
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(Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a weekly contributor to the Forum Page.)
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