PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia legislators have honored a new comedy show that follows a group of teachers at an underfunded elementary school in our city.
"'Abbott Elementary' could not come at a more important time in the national debate around public education," said Philadelphia Councilmember Helen Gym.
She introduced a resolution in City Council last month, honoring Philly native and comedian Quinta Brunson for creating the critically acclaimed show. The resolution recently passed.
"This is a show that is Black- and female-led. It’s really transformative for television and Philadelphia, at a time when I think schools are so clearly at the crux of our society and economy," Gym said.
"What I think 'Abbott' does is remind people of the joy of teaching."
Gym and her fellow Council members wanted to acknowledge the compassion and political poignance of the show.
"It never once shied away from the pain of Philadelphia’s underfunded school system, but it told it through the most loving and humanity-driven eyes," she said.
Gym said sometimes it takes an artist to shine a light on urgent societal issues.
"Quinta Brunson’s bringing to prime time a love letter to Philadelphia educators, public schools, and issuing a call to action to support both is so uplifting," she said.
"It’s just such a celebration of Black teachers and educators, children and families in our schools."
Gym hopes it will also inspire more people to appreciate teachers and to consider becoming teachers themselves.
After receiving the honor, Brunson tweeted back gratitude for Gym's efforts.
