WHEREAS, Winnie Harris was a well known civic activist in West Philadelphia. She was the acting director and longtime volunteering coordinator at UC Green, a group that plants and tends trees in the neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Harris worked as a volunteer coordinator at UC Green for 18 years, and had been working as their Executive Director for about one year; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Harris majored in interior design and received her undergraduate degree from Drexel University. She had an eye for detail and was a key organizer for many Saturday morning tree plantings in West Philadelphia. Over the years she planted thousands of trees, in front of homes, schools, playgrounds, and all around; and
WHEREAS, She was known for her “get it done” attitude and her enthusiasm for her work inspired many to volunteer in green centered organizations in the community. Last summer she could be found rallying support for the Holly Street Neighbor’s Community Garden, a garden built on a vacant lot right down the street from her West Philadelphia home; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Harris cared for the people in her community and was a mentor to many, ranging from young teenagers to seniors; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Harris supported programs that provided green education to young people. She was especially proud of Green Corps, which provided local high school students environmental education and leadership training during the summer; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Harris was found dead in her home on the evening of February 3rd with a single gunshot wound to her abdomen. Her sudden death left her neighbors and community in shock. Many expressed confusion as to who could possibly want to kill a woman so beloved by the community; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Harris was a rare and beautiful gem indeed. She loved her community and spent her life trying to give back to those around her. Her passion for making this world greener attracted many to her cause, the impact of which will be felt for many years to come. She was a pillar in the community and will be remembered and will be missed by all; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes and honors Winnie Harris for her years of activism in Philadelphia, and offers our deepest and sincerest condolences to family and friends and all those who are grieving her untimely death.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Winnie Harris as a sincere expression of the Council of the City of Philadelphia’s gratitude, admiration and recognition.
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