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Honoring and recognizing Rick Williams, Sharrie Williams, Ukee Washington, Thera Martin, and Solomon Jones for their service to Philadelphia as trusted journalists and stewards of truth during Black History Month.
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WHEREAS, Access to reliable information is essential to a functioning democracy and to the everyday decisions Philadelphians make about their lives and communities; and
WHEREAS, Rick Williams, Sharrie Williams, Ukee Washington, Thera Martin, and Solomon Jones have built public trust through consistent, responsible reporting that centers the people of Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, Rick Williams has served Philadelphia for more than three decades as an anchor and reporter for 6ABC Action News, bringing important local news to audiences across the region, hosting community programs such as “Crimefighters,” and helping guide viewers through major events while also supporting young people through mentoring and nonprofit work such as his role with Philadelphia Futures; and
WHEREAS, Sharrie Williams is a co-anchor for Action News at 5 p.m. on 6ABC and at 10 p.m. on PHL17, with a career that includes reporting on national political moments, major sporting events, and community issues, and in 2024 was honored as Journalist of the Year by the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists. Williams also holds a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and is deeply committed to mentoring young people and advocating for mental health awareness; and
WHEREAS, Ukee Washington has long been a trusted presence in Philadelphia journalism as co-anchor of evening newscasts on CBS3 and KYW-TV, bringing thoughtful reporting and community context to viewers, while also engaging audiences through segments like “Keepin’ It Reel” and discussions of local social issues. Washington’s long tenure in broadcast journalism and his work connecting with audiences across generations reflect his dedication to civic life and storytelling; and
WHEREAS, Thera Martin has been a fixture in the Philadelphia media landscape for decades, working across radio, cable television, and print, hosting programs such as News You Can Use and The Electric Magazine Show, and using her voice to spotlight small business owners, nonprofits, and community concerns throughout the City. Martin’s career reflects a deep commitment to community information, local issues, and supporting civic engagement; and
WHEREAS, Solomon Jones is an award-winning columnist and author whose work for outlets including the Philadelphia Daily News and Axis Philly consistently addresses race, class, and social justice in Philadelphia, while also serving as a radio host on WURD and contributing to national outlets such as NPR and CNN. Jones has used his platform to elevate critical conversations about equity and opportunity, and his books and columns have made significant contributions to the City’s literary and journalistic tradition; and
WHEREAS, Their work has documented the challenges, progress, and lived experiences of Black communities across the City, often during moments when clarity and care were most needed; and
WHEREAS, Their presence in local news has helped shape how Philadelphia sees itself and how it is seen by others, while opening doors for those who follow in their path; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and recognizes Rick Williams, Sharrie Williams, Ukee Washington, Thera Martin, and Solomon Jones for their service to Philadelphia as trusted journalists and stewards of truth during Black History Month.
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