R.I.P. Philadelphia City Councilman David Cohen

Sad news: apparently David Cohen passed away today. He had been hospitalized for about two weeks for kidney problems, and apparently was caught by heart failure. Our thoughts go with his family. A tribute to David and Florence Cohen was held last month at Bread & Roses -- see the notes there on his devotion to the community for many decades.

In City Council, the Cohens consistently championed anti-poverty programs, fair labor practices, anti-discrimination policies, and improved public education. Grassroots organizations, including many that Bread & Roses supports, have always known that they can count the Cohens to fight vigorously for legislation that will help Philadelphia communities.

This leaves some big shoes empty in City Hall...