Will the next Mayor of Philadelphia think globally?

Today, the Global Philadelphia Association (GPA) hosted a Mayoral Forum at International House Philadelphia. It was attended by candidates Lynne Abraham and Nelson Diaz and by representatives of Jim Kenney and Anthony Williams. The intent was to equip participants with highly-relevant information on Philadelphia’s international strengths and challenges. The GPA is convinced that the sooner that Philadelphia realizes its full promise as a global city the sooner it will enjoy positive effects on its economy and jobs, trade and tourism, education and For this to happen, having a globally-minded mayor is vital. 

At the outset of the Forum, Executive Director Zabeth Teelucksingh and Board Chair John Smith made remarks, and members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia were recognized. 

The Forum was then turned over to well-known TV broadcaster Steve Highsmith and for an hour and one-half the candidates faced a variety of questions regarding their understanding of Philadelphia as an international city and their commitment to advancing its global prospects. The candidates had an opportunity to gain recognition for their campaigns. For the public, it was an opportunity to hear their views one week before election day.

The forum was part of the Association’s Globally-Minded Leadership Project, which is co-chaired by Nancy Gilboy of Citizen Diplomacy International and Craig Snyder of the World Affairs Council. The Project, which last month held a meet and greet reception for the candidates for City Council, will continue throughout the election season. It has been organized by the GPA to take advantage of the international expertise that resides within the organizations, businesses, colleges and universities, and globally-minded individuals that make up the Association’s membership. 

The Global Philadelphia Association (GPA) sees the future of Philadelphia as one in which the City is widely recognized, both in the region and around the world, as a preeminent global city.

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GPA assists and encourages greater interaction among the many organizations and people who are engaged in international activity in the Greater Philadelphia Region. The Association promotes the development of an international consciousness within the region and works to enhance the region’s global profile.