Festival organizer and civil rights attorney allege racial discrimination
The Pittsburgh Soul Food Festival, a popular event celebrating Black culture, may face a legal battle over its venue change. Organizer William “B” Marshall has been informed that the festival cannot be held at PPG Plaza next year. Marshall, along with his civil rights attorney, believes this decision is racially discriminatory and is prepared to take legal action.
A Celebration of Black Culture in Downtown Pittsburgh
Since 2019, the Pittsburgh Soul Food Festival has drawn thousands of visitors to Downtown Pittsburgh during Labor Day weekend. The festival spans from the Boulevard of the Allies through PPG Plaza down to Market Square, symbolically celebrating Black culture in a historically significant location. Marshall emphasizes the importance of Third Avenue, which is designated as Pittsburgh’s Black Wall Street, and its connection to the festival.
Allegations of Discrimination and Safety Concerns
Marshall claims that Highwoods Properties, the owner of PPG Plaza, is demanding the venue change due to complaints about noise, customers, and attendees. He points to an altercation between customers that resulted in arrests, as well as an individual with a concealed weapon threatening others, as incidents that triggered the demand. However, Marshall argues that these concerns are being used as a pretext for racial discrimination.
Legal Action and Allegations of Racial Bias
Marshall’s civil rights attorney, Alexa Gervasi, has reviewed the communications between her client and Highwoods Properties. She has compared the festival’s footprint with that of other events held at PPG Plaza and finds no reasonable explanation for the decision other than racial bias. Gervasi is determined to challenge any form of racial discrimination and is prepared to pursue legal action if necessary.
Highwoods Properties’ Response and Future Plans
KDKA-TV reached out to Highwoods Properties for comment. The executive vice president and general counsel responded with a statement acknowledging their support for the Soul Food Festival’s mission but expressing concerns about the 2023 event. They plan to implement stricter regulations for all users of PPG Plaza starting in 2024. The statement also emphasizes the need for sponsors to pay applicable fees, ensure security, and take responsibility for clean-up after the event.
Conclusion: The Pittsburgh Soul Food Festival’s venue change has sparked allegations of racial discrimination and a potential legal battle. While Highwoods Properties cites concerns about safety, noise, and logistics, festival organizer William “B” Marshall and his attorney believe these reasons mask racial bias. As the deadline for a decision approaches, the outcome of this dispute will have significant implications for the festival and its celebration of Black culture.
Leave a Reply