Tampa Republic

Today, the City of Tampa will hold a street renaming ceremony to honor the remarkable life and enduring legacy of the late Michael Phillips, a revered local disability and healthcare advocate. The ceremony, taking place at 3:00 p.m. outside of his cherished Plant High School, will bring together Tampa City Council members, community representatives, and Michael's mother to pay tribute to his profound contributions.

Michael Phillips was a beloved figure in the Tampa community, known for his dedication to advocating for individuals with disabilities and improving healthcare accessibility. He passed away in March 2020, but his impactful work and unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of others continue to resonate within the community.

Speaking about the significance of the event, Councilmember Smith stated, "We are honored to come together today to recognize the outstanding contributions of Michael Phillips. His tireless efforts in advocating for individuals with disabilities and improving healthcare accessibility have made a lasting impact on our community."

The street renaming ceremony will serve as a symbol of gratitude and remembrance for Michael's selfless work. It will be a testament to his legacy and the positive change he brought to the lives of countless individuals.

The dedication ceremony will be held at the corner of S. Himes and W. San Jose St., outside of Plant High School, a place that held special meaning for Michael. His dedication and passion for advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities were deeply rooted in his own experiences.

Michael's mother, who will be in attendance at the ceremony, expressed her gratitude, saying, "I am deeply moved by the City of Tampa's decision to honor my son's legacy in this way. Michael was a compassionate advocate for those who needed it most, and it warms my heart to see his work recognized and celebrated."

The street renaming dedication ceremony is a testament to the unity and support within the Tampa community. It serves as a reminder of the impact that one individual can make and the lasting legacy they leave behind.

As the community gathers to honor Michael Phillips, his memory will continue to inspire others to advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. The renaming of the street will serve as a constant reminder of his selfless dedication and the importance of creating a more inclusive and accessible society.

In the words of Michael himself, "Every person, regardless of their abilities, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. We must continue to strive for a society that is inclusive and supportive of all its members."

The City of Tampa, along with its residents, is proud to honor the legacy of Michael Phillips and will continue to work towards building a more compassionate and inclusive community.

For more information about the street renaming dedication ceremony, please contact the City of Tampa at 306 East Jackson Street, Tampa, Florida, 33602, or call (813) 274-8211.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.tampa.gov/news/2023-12/honoring-legacy-city-leaders-and-community-unite-street-renaming-dedication-ceremony