By Darryl Shuler

As a deeply concerned Philadelphian, I can no longer remain silent about the relentless assault on Sheriff Rochelle Bilal’s character and reputation. What began with The Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Daily News has now spread like a virus to other media outlets, like the ‘progressive’ online blog Philadelphia Citizen, creating a toxic echo chamber of criticism that threatens not only public servants, staff, and consultants, but also the very fabric of our democracy.

“The power of life and death lies in the tongue,” warns Proverbs 18:21. In Islamic tradition, a hadith cautions: “Indeed a servant will speak a word displeasing to Allah that he thinks to be insignificant, but because of it, He will consign him to the Hellfire.” These ancient wisdoms ring alarmingly true as we witness our local media wield words as weapons, seemingly intent on destroying rather than informing.

Since taking office on January 6, 2020, Sheriff Bilal has worked tirelessly to reform a troubled department:
1. Implementing transparency initiatives to rebuild public trust
2. Creating a Constituent Services Unit to improve responsiveness and provide resources to those losing their homes an opportunity to save them before a sheriff sale occurs
3. Returning millions in excess proceeds to homeowners losing their homes through sheriff sale
4. Transforming technology and upgrading equipment for staff efficiency
5. Modernizing critical units to enhance public safety and security
6. Distributing and providing food to over 30,000 families during the pandemic
7. Organizing citywide 2-day Free Healthcare Clinics to treat medical, dental, and vision
Yet, where are these stories in our local newspapers? Instead, we’re force-fed a diet of sensationalism, isolated incidents, and inherited problems, all crafted to paint a distorted picture of failure. Is this journalism, or character assassination?

Let’s call it what it is: a betrayal of the public trust. These media outlets have abandoned any pretense of journalistic integrity by refusing to print Sheriff Bilal’s statements in full, cherry-picking information, and amplifying unsubstantiated allegations. They’re not watchdogs; they are attack dogs, foaming at the mouth with bias.

We must ask ourselves: Who truly benefits from this smear campaign? Is it us, the citizens of Philadelphia? Or is it the wealthy owners of these media conglomerates, whose interests may not align with our community’s wellbeing?

The undercurrent of prejudice in this ongoing coverage of Sheriff Rochelle Bilal is impossible to ignore. Sexism, racism, and classism—all rear their ugly heads in the criticism directed at Sheriff Rochelle Bilal. How can we stand by and watch this happen as a community that prides itself on progress and inclusivity?

The power of the press is immense, but so is the power of the people. We can choose to reject this biased narrative. This isn’t just about Sheriff Bilal. It’s about the kind of city we want to be. Do we want a Philadelphia where progress is celebrated, or one where reformers are torn down? Do we want media that informs, or media that manipulates?

Philly, it’s time we demand better from our media outlets:
1. Balanced reporting that acknowledges progress alongside challenges
2. Full transparency in media ownership and potential conflicts of interest
3. A commitment to substantive issues over sensationalism
Philadelphia, we stand at a crossroads.
The relentless negative coverage of Sheriff Rochelle Bilal by major media outlets like The Philadelphia Inquirer and The Philadelphia Daily News serves as a stark reminder: we must approach our news with a critical eye. These “reputable” sources, despite their claims of objectivity, are businesses with their own agendas. Don’t be swayed by sensational headlines or biased endorsements, especially during election seasons. Instead, seek out diverse perspectives, verify information independently, and question the narratives presented to you by reporters with questionable intent.
Remember, an informed citizen is the best defense against media manipulation. By staying vigilant and discerning, we can build a better, more just Philadelphia that truly reflects our values of progress, diversity, and justice.