The Second Amendment protects every American’s right to bear arms. That includes the Black Panthers. In Philadelphia, they are making sure everyone knows it.
Members of the Black Panther Party say they will resist any ICE incursion. They are determined that what happened in Minneapolis will not happen in their city. A member told The Philadelphia Enquirer, “If we were there, not a single person would have gotten touched.”
Black Panther Party Philly issues strong warning to ICE
Local chapter Chairman Paul Birdsong spoke directly to ICE. He said they will protect their community at all costs.
“An unarmed woman was killed by ICE. If you think you can come and brutalize the people while we’re standing here? F**k around and find out,” he said.
Birdsong emphasized accountability. The Panthers patrol their neighborhoods and make sure authorities are held responsible. He warned that they carry bigger guns now and will not tolerate abuse.
Birdsong explained the weapons they carry. “It’s a semi-automatic shotgun. Those shells shoot rapidly. If you are going to legally arm yourself, arm yourself with something bigger than what they got. Those who serve the public should be fearful of the public.”
The Panthers’ presence sends a message. Even if weapons are not used, seeing heavily armed Black people patrolling the streets is powerful. It demonstrates that communities can defend themselves under the law.
Philadelphia gears up against ICE
Philadelphia is preparing to resist ICE operations. The district attorney and local police have promised to arrest and prosecute agents who violate the law. The Black Panther Party says they will not let ICE near immigrant communities.
The city is sending a clear warning: any attempt to enter these neighborhoods will face legal and armed resistance. The combination of constitutional rights and community vigilance is strengthening Philadelphia against federal overreach.
