WHEREAS
, Roxanne H. Jones was known as a "dynamic champion of the people;" and
WHEREAS
, During the 1960s, Roxanne H. Jones served as chairperson of the Philadelphia Welfare Rights Organization where her unique and fiery leadership raised membership from six hundred to three thousand; and
WHEREAS
, In 1984, Roxanne H. Jones became the first African American woman elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate where she served the 3rd Senatorial District for twelve years; and
WHEREAS
, Senator Jones spearheaded many initiatives including: Act 62 of 1987, known today as "New Directions," which established a job training program for welfare recipients that has enabled tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians to find jobs; the creation of residential treatment centers for drug and alcohol dependent women with children; and, affordable housing programs; and
WHEREAS
, Senator Jones has served as a board member and has been honored by over twenty organizations ranging from local to national affiliations; and
WHEREAS
, She truly dedicated her life to raising the standard of living for all people; now, therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia
, That that part of Allegheny Avenue from Ridge Avenue to Sedgley Avenue shall also be known as "Roxanne H. Jones Avenue."
End