The Hidden Racist History of Some Pittsburgh Neighborhoods
If you own an old home, there might be offensive language in your deed barring Black people from owning the property. It’s called a racial covenant, and even though this language isn’t enforceable anymore, it’s still on the books in the subdivisions of at least a few Pittsburgh neighborhoods — and especially in our suburbs. Local writer and historian David Rotenstein joins us to talk about what got us here — and a new law that could help homeowners address these ugly remnants of the past.
You can read David’s reporting on racial covenants in PublicSource and Pittsburgh City Paper.
Learn more about our sponsor! It’s almost time for the 25th Mattress Factory Garden Party. It’s an epic annual fundraiser and costume party, and the theme this year is MAKE/BELIEVE. Get your tickets now for Friday, June 7 at mattress.org.
Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.
Want more Pittsburgh news?
- Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
- We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
- Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Stay connected to City Cast Pittsburgh and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Tattoo Regulations, Steelers in Paris & Debating the Essence of Sheetz
Allegheny County Council is taking steps to oust Pat Catena as the group's president, after his campaign sent out a mailer claiming his o...

Can Pittsburgh Fix Its Budget Problems?
City Controller Rachael Heisler has been sounding the alarm on Pittsburgh's budget for actual years, and her latest report shows the city...

Mid-Century Sleepover, Tiki Cruise & More Pittsburgh Milestone Birthday Ideas

What To Eat (and Avoid) at PNC Park
Let's be honest, the Pirates aren't always the main draw at PNC Park. Many of us go for the views, the pierogi race, and inventive ballpa...

7 Ideas To Make Voting Better in PA
Our primary election is just around the corner on May 19, so it feels like a good time to take stock of how well our voting process actua...

'Your City Could Be Better': Philly's Bold Nightlife Experiment — Presented By City Cast Pittsburgh
Pittsburghers, would your city be better if the bars stayed open later? This summer, Philadelphia is anticipating a record-breaking numbe...

Shapiro v. Chatbots, Market Square Curfew & Summer Music Fests
Gov. Josh Shapiro is suing Character.AI, saying its chatbots are posing as doctors and offering medical advice. Executive producer Mallor...

Green Chile Queso, Gumbo & More New Pittsburgh Food & Drink
So many new restaurants are popping up in Pittsburgh this spring, each fulfilling a specific craving. Longing for gumbo and jambalaya coo...

10 Essential Rules for Surviving Pittsburgh
Pittsburghers have a lot of pride in our city, including our weird quirks and unwritten rules. Like why do neighbors keep putting old fol...

Where To Get Brunch in Pittsburgh
Whether you're celebrating Mother's Day this Sunday or just want a weekend treat, there are so many great brunch options in Pittsburgh. P...

