In a recent discovery, human remains linked to the tragic 1985 police bombing of a Black liberation group, MOVE, have been found at the University of Pennsylvania Museum. The remains are believed to be those of 12-year-old Delisha Africa, one of the young victims of the violent incident.
Background: The 1985 MOVE Bombing
On May 13, 1985, Philadelphia police dropped an explosive device on the MOVE organization’s headquarters, leading to a deadly fire. MOVE, an organization founded by John Africa, promoted anti-establishment views, rejecting modern conveniences and advocating for animal rights. The police bombing, intended to forcefully evict MOVE members, resulted in a fire that destroyed over 60 homes, killing 11 people, including five children.
Emergency responders were instructed not to intervene, allowing the flames to spread, in one of the few instances of U.S. authorities bombing American citizens. The incident led to public outcry, a 1986 commission condemning the bombing as “unconscionable,” and a $1.5 million settlement to MOVE survivors in 1996. However, no criminal charges were filed against police or city officials.
The Discovery of Remains at Penn Museum
This recent finding at the Penn Museum was made during a museum inventory process for the relocation of thousands of artifacts. The remains were discovered nearly 40 years after the bombing, despite earlier assurances from the city that all remains had been returned to families. The museum promptly notified Delisha Africa’s family upon the discovery, expressing a commitment to transparency and ethical handling of sensitive materials.
In 2021, it was revealed that the university had retained some bones from a MOVE victim as part of an identification process, sparking controversy over the handling of the remains. The museum has now pledged to uphold ethical standards and prioritize the dignity of human remains in its care.
Community Outrage and Legal Response
Lawyers Bakari Sellers and Daniel Hartstein, representing a family member of another victim, expressed disappointment and frustration, calling the treatment of MOVE victims “disrespectful.” They cited this revelation as part of a long history of institutional negligence toward Black Americans, adding to existing resentment surrounding the mishandling of the MOVE victims’ remains.
“We are disgusted and disappointed, but, unfortunately, we are not surprised,” the attorneys said, highlighting the community’s pain and urging accountability from the city and university.
Museum’s Response
In a statement, the Penn Museum emphasized its commitment to honoring the dignity of the deceased and the families affected and to re-evaluate its practices to meet the highest ethical standards.
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