Black Philly chronicled, with care.

Contributors

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Cassie Owens

Cassie is The Philly Download's inaugural editor-in-chief and executive director. Born and bred in Northwest Philadelphia, she believes that jimmies refer to the chocolate ones, everything can be more nuanced and that good stories never die.

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Whitney Roberts

Whitney Roberts is a Philadelphia writer, podcaster, and content creator featured by the NAACP, Wired, NBC, and more. She contributes to outlets like TheRoot and NPR, amplifying diverse voices and stories.

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Rotimi Adeoye

Rotimi Adeoye is a Philadelphia-based writer and columnist at The Daily Beast covering history, voting, and constitutional law. Formerly a speechwriter and Capitol Hill aide, he appears on MSNBC and writes for major publications.

Troi Williams

Troi Williams

Troi Williams is a writer, traveler, and social media strategist amplifying marginalized voices. She blends storytelling, social justice, and travel to challenge inequities and inspire community change.

Aaron Brokenbough Jr.

Aaron Brokenbough Jr.

Aaron Brokenbough is a Philly filmmaker, producer, and writer covering community, culture, and storytelling. He produces award-winning films and develops projects like Redefining Safety, highlighting Black, queer, and immigrant voices.

Benzii Diaz

Benzii Diaz

Benzii Diaz is a wellness coach, anti-trafficking advocate, and former athlete. A survivor, she empowers women through fitness, safety, and storytelling, highlighting underrepresented voices in sports and community life.

Ayouba Swaray

Ayouba Swaray

Ayouba Swaray (he/they) is a multidisciplinary artist and producer contributing to Philly arts and culture. They’re developing the Afro/Indigenous-Futurist comic The Organ Trail and short film City of Deferred Dreams.

Rylee Curry

Rylee Curry

Rylee Curry is a journalist and policy enthusiast highlighting overlooked stories. With degrees in Journalism, African American Studies, and Public Policy, she creates work that uplifts, informs, and drives impact.

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Diamante "Dimo" Ortiz

Dimo Ortiz (She/They) is a Philly poet, journalist, and organizer exploring grief, gender, and Afro-Boricua heritage. They founded Protest PHL, host open mics, and write Notes to Self, reflecting on life, self-love, and storytelling.