WHEREAS, Rasheed Wallace is a native of Philadelphia and a graduate of Simon Gratz High School. Over the years, he has demonstrated a significant commitment to the movement to improve the health and socio-economic conditions of African Americans in urban areas; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Wallace is a talented NBA Champion, Philadelphia Sports Hall of Famer, and 16-year NBA veteran. He has consistently used his opportunities and successes for good, investing in communities that need it; and
WHEREAS, In 2016, he drove a truck over 700 miles to deliver cases of potable water to Flint, Michigan residents. He followed this initiative with a call to action published in the Player’s Tribune. After which, Mr. Wallace became an advocate for additional federal assistance programs to ease the water crisis in Flint, often appearing on national news outlets; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Wallace has traveled across the country to participate in rallies and panels to bring about systemic change; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Wallace has dedicated himself to giving back to the community, having rebuilt the gymnasium at Simon Gratz High School. He has also hosted free basketball camps in Philadelphia and every city he played in, giving away thousands of sneakers and meals. By providing additional recreational outlets to underprivileged children in Philadelphia, the District of Columbia, Portland, Durham, New York, and Detroit, Mr. Wallace has done society a laudable service; and
WHEREAS, Rasheed Wallace’s philanthropic efforts have changed lives. His contributions have been markedly generous, and his dedication to our youth shows in his generosity to his former high school here in the City of Philadelphia; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Renames the 1700 Block of Hunting Park Avenue in front of Simon Gratz High School “Rasheed Wallace Road” to honor Rasheed Wallace, a philanthropist, former NBA player, and entrepreneur.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy be presented to Rasheed Wallace, further evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
End