Why the DOJ is investigating Philadelphia after police stripped gun permits from Black Panthers-inspired group

Philadelphia police revoked the carry licenses of five members of the Black Lion Party for International Solidarity, citing ‘good cause.’ Is that constitutional?

By: Jonathan S. Goldstein, University of Pennsylvania and George A. Mocsary, University of Wyoming; Institute for Humane Studies, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 7, 2026

Words: 1,375

Last Updated: 2 weeks ago

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By Jonathan S. Goldstein, University of Pennsylvania and George A. Mocsary, University of Wyoming; Institute for Humane Studies

Paul Birdsong leads the Black Lion Party for International Solidarity, an armed, Black Panthers-inspired mutual aid group in Philadelphia.

Until February, the 39-year-old carried a firearm during the group’s neighborhood patrols to increase neighborhood safety. Then the police revoked his carry license. Four other Black Lion members lost their licenses the same week.

The city’s …

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