[...] the only folks who kill black folks any more are black folks. [...] black folks kill more black folks than the KKK ever did.

I didn't run for mayor to be the caretaker of the status quo.

If you walk into somebody's office with your hair uncombed and a pick in the back, and your shoes untied, and your pants half down, tattoos up and down your arms and on your neck, and you wonder why somebody won't hire you? They don't hire you 'cause you look like you're crazy!

There is no reason for a civilian to have an automatic weapon.

Take your patience pill ...You can be joyous, but you can't be a jackass.

I believe in the critical importance of participating in the political system - from voting to standing for election. It's both rewarding and necessary that men and women of good will and clear thinking engage in honest, open debate.

Philadelphia, the foundation of freedom, liberty and democracy, I still believe in the idea of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.