Why the DOJ is investigating Philadelphia after police stripped gun permits from Black Panthers-inspired group
- Paul Birdsong leads the Black Lion Party for International Solidarity, an armed group inspired by the Black Panthers in Philadelphia.
- The Philadelphia Police Department revoked Birdsong's carry license.
- On June 9, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice began a civil rights investigation into the Philadelphia Police Department's firearm licensing practices.
- The Justice Department stated that using vague personal discretion to issue or revoke carry permits violates the Second Amendment.
43 Articles
43 Articles
DOJ Investigates Philadelphia Over Revoked Gun Permits For Black Panther-Inspired Group
The Justice Department is now investigating the city for potentially violating the Second Amendment over its treatment of a group associated with the Black Panthers. DOJ investigates Philadelphia for disarming Black Panther-inspired group An article in The Conversation by two academics is shining a light on an unusual case in Philadelphia. University of Wyoming law professor George Mocsary and University of Pennsylvania lecturer Jonathan Goldste…
They patrolled Philly’s streets to protect the public. Now their gun licenses are being revoked.
Black Lions Chairman Paul Birdsong confronts a Philadelphia police officer during a patrol on January 20, 2026. (Photo by Mensah M. Dean for The Trace) This story was originally published by The Trace, a nonprofit newsroom covering gun violence in America. This story was published in partnership with The Philadelphia Citizen. The Black Lion Party for International Solidarity turned heads and gained international headlines this year when members …
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