WHEREAS, Irene Russell grew up in the Grays Ferry neighborhood and attended Philadelphia public schools, where she excelled in her studies; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Russell wrote poetry throughout her life, and became known for her recitals at funerals, weddings, and church and community affairs. She has been called the “Maya Angelou” of Grays Ferry; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Russell has worked with numerous community organizations since she was a teen. She is most well known for her leadership as the president of The Friends of Stinger Square; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Russell had an ambitious vision for what could happen in Stinger Square so, in 2000, she joined Philadelphia Green, a neighborhood greening program by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Russell has also succeeded in establishing broadly appealing and popular programming at Stinger Square. She has hosted live concerts in the park, organized The Grays Ferry Old Timers Reunion, and hosted other activities that have made the park a welcome and enjoyable place for the entire community. She has also showcased and honored the people and groups who serve the Grays Ferry community, including firefighters, veterans, crossing guards, and others; and
WHEREAS, Russell’s dedication to her neighborhood and all its residents has helped to create a sense of community in Grays Ferry. For that, she is an everyday heroine deserving of recognition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Also names the 3200 block of Reed Street “Irene Russell Way” to recognize, honor, and celebrate the life and legacy of Irene Russell and her dedication to the Grays Ferry neighborhood.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Irene Russell as evidence of the admiration and respect of this body.
End