💸 Who’s trying to block PA’s minimum wage hike?

Anti-ICE Protesters Charged by Federal Authorities

Nine religious leaders and one Philly activist were arrested by DHS yesterday morning during a protest outside the agency’s garage. The demonstration is part of “A Week of Action Against ICE and Collaborators,” and was planned to coincide with Holy Week and Passover. [🔒 The Inquirer]

How Philly’s Keeping Students Safe

The looming closures and mergers of Philly’s public schools have students and families concerned about potential conflicts arising among different school communities. Although the facilities master plan still needs to be voted on, city and school officials have shared potential solutions to ensure safety during the transition period. But will it be enough? [🎧 City Cast Philly]

• Related: The Group Violence Intervention Juvenile program is providing counseling, employment support, and help completing an education to young people from neighborhoods with high shooting rates. [The Trace]

State House Approves Major Bills

The Pennsylvania House closed out the month by passing bills that codify marriage equality, establish a paid family leave program, and raise the minimum wage to $15. The bills now head to the Senate. But one nonprofit, with ties to a firm whose founder has been nicknamed “Dr. Evil,” is aggressively lobbying against a minimum wage increase. [City and State PA, Pennsylvania Capital-Star]

New Boutique Hotel to Open in Old City

If you know someone coming to Philly for this summer’s festivities, they can now stay at The Diplomat. The hotel is heavily inspired by Benjamin Franklin, with references such as busts and Franklin-era maps of the city scattered throughout the building. [🔒 Philadelphia Business Journal]

• Related: These boutique hotels are great options for a visiting friend or your next staycation. [🎧 City Cast Philly]