WHEREAS, Ukee Washington has been a staple of Philadelphia local network news for over three decades, starting out as a sports anchor with KYW in 1986; and
WHEREAS, For his outstanding work and service to the community, Washington has received professional and civic awards, including induction into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters Halls of Fame; and
WHEREAS, A native of West Philadelphia, the beloved Washington is known by colleagues, friends, and neighbors as a true professional and role model for the community; and
WHEREAS, A recent investigation published by the Los Angeles Times exposed allegations of misconduct by senior CBS media executives who oversee the local CBS3 network, including allegations that Washington has been the subject of ongoing derogatory comments and treatment by at least one senior executive; and
WHEREAS, “I do believe we shall overcome,” Washington said in an on-air response to the article in which he thanked the public and his colleagues for their outpouring of support; and
WHEREAS, The Times report also cites several former CBS3 employees who described scores of workplace abuses, including sexual harassment and racial discrimination; and
WHEREAS, CBS3 is one of the oldest cable news stations in the nation, and the birthplace of the “eyewitness news” format; and
WHEREAS, Washington, and all employees at CBS3 that work to deliver news in the public interest of Philadelphia residents, deserve senior leadership that values their work and promotes a workplace culture of inclusion and diversity; and
WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia has been well served by Ukee Washington’s professionalism, integrity, and positive character for decades, and unequivocally stands with him and his colleagues during this difficult period; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, that it herby expresses support for longtime Philadelphia news anchor, Ukee Washington, and stands with all impacted employees at CBS3, amid reports of gross misconduct at the network.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy be presented to Ukee Washington, further evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
End