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Honoring and Recognizing Sheryl Lee Ralph for being named one of TIME Magazine’s Most Influential Women of The Year in 2026.
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WHEREAS, Sheryl Lee Ralph, an acclaimed actress, singer, and activist, has devoted nearly five decades to excellence in the performing arts, captivating audiences with her dynamic presence, powerful voice, and unwavering commitment to her craft; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Ralph first rose to national prominence with her Tony Award-nominated performance as Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of Dreamgirls, establishing herself as a trailblazer in American theater and opening doors for generations of Black performers; and
WHEREAS, Her distinguished career spans television, film, and stage, including her celebrated portrayal of Barbara Howard on the critically acclaimed ABC sitcom Abbott Elementary, where she brings authenticity, humor, and grace to the role of a dedicated educator; and
WHEREAS, In 2022, Ms. Ralph received a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role on Abbott Elementary, becoming only the second Black woman to earn this honor in the category, and has since continued to receive consecutive nominations, solidifying her legacy as a groundbreaking performer; and
WHEREAS, In April 2025, after nearly fifty years of perseverance and artistic excellence, Ms. Ralph was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a long-overdue recognition of her enduring contributions to the entertainment industry; and
WHEREAS, Beyond her artistic accomplishments, Ms. Ralph has dedicated her life to advocacy and public service, founding the DIVA Foundation in 1990 to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and provide critical support to affected communities, particularly those historically underserved and overlooked; and
WHEREAS, Her advocacy continues through impactful storytelling, including her role as executive producer of the documentary Living Proof, which amplifies the voices of Black women in the South living with HIV and underscores her commitment to ensuring that every individual’s story is heard and valued; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Ralph has also been a passionate champion for educators, using her platform through Abbott Elementary to highlight the dedication, compassion, and resilience of teachers who shape the lives of young people each day; and
WHEREAS, In recognition of her extraordinary influence, cultural impact, and unwavering dedication to uplifting others, Ms. Ralph has been named one of the honorees of TIME’s Most Influential Women of the Year, a prestigious distinction celebrating women who are shaping the world through leadership, advocacy, and transformative impact; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Ralph’s legacy is defined not only by her artistic excellence, but by her commitment to empowering communities, amplifying underrepresented voices, and inspiring generations to persevere with courage, authenticity, and purpose; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors and congratulates Sheryl Lee Ralph on being named one of TIME’s Most Influential Women of the Year and celebrates her outstanding contributions to the arts, advocacy, and global community; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Sheryl Lee Ralph as an expression of the admiration and gratitude of the Council of the City of Philadelphia.
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