WHEREAS, Donna Ann Reed Miller was born on September 29, 1946, in Philadelphia as the first of five children to Elisha "Sonny" Reed and Alice Turner-Reed. She graduated from Germantown High School, studied business administration at Temple University, and earned a master’s degree in social work from Antioch University. Donna’s family were lifelong members of Bethel A.M.E. Church; and
WHEREAS, Donna was married twice; her first marriage to Thomas McSween resulted in a daughter, Tari, who tragically passed away from cancer, and her second marriage brought her daughter Shakira. Known for her nurturing nature, Donna was deeply involved in her community from a young age; and
WHEREAS, Donna’s commitment to public service began in Pulaski Town (S.W. Germantown) and led her to engage with progressive groups such as the United Progressives Black Humanist Fellowship and the Congress of African People. In 1974, she joined the Northwest Action Committee (NWAC), supporting Black culture and economic cooperation; and
WHEREAS, Donna’s advocacy included children and family economic development, affordable housing, public safety, and rights for returning citizens. She empowered youth and championed numerous causes throughout her career; and
WHEREAS, Donna served as a prominent leader in Philadelphia, including leading the Democratic City Committee’s 59th Ward and as a member of the Philadelphia City Council’s Eighth District from January 1996 to January 2012. Her work led to significant neighborhood revitalization and legislative initiatives such as the Clean Indoor Air Act, Anti-Loitering Ordinance, economic development programs, education advocacy, neighborhood revitalization, and Ban the Box legislation; and
WHEREAS, Following her retirement from City Council, Donna continued to contribute to various boards and committees, leaving a lasting legacy of positive change and community impact; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Renames the Waterview Playground to the “Donna Reed Miller Playground” to honor the life and legacy of former Councilmember Donna Reed Miller for her dedicated community service, impactful public policy contributions, and enduring inspiration to all who knew her.
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