Skip to main content
header-left
File #: 260084    Version: 0 Name:
Type: Resolution Status: ADOPTED
File created: 2/5/2026 In control: CITY COUNCIL
On agenda: Final action: 2/5/2026
Title: 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.
Sponsors: Councilmember Jones, Council President Johnson, Councilmember Phillips, Councilmember Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Gauthier, Councilmember Thomas, Councilmember Landau, Councilmember Lozada, Councilmember Brooks, Councilmember Harrity, Councilmember O'Rourke, Councilmember Driscoll, Councilmember Squilla, Councilmember Bass, Councilmember Ahmad
Attachments: 1. Signature26008400
Title
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.

Body
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...

Click here for full text