ENROLLED ORIGINAL
1
A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
25-144
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
November 7, 2023
To posthumously recognize and honor Reverend Doctor Sandra Butler-Truesdale for her
significant contributions to our local j azz community and her outstanding years of public
service in the District of Columbia.
WHEREAS, Dr. Butler -Truesdale was born in Washington, DC on November 15
th
, 1939,
and devoted her life to preserving, protecting and promoting the artistic legacies of the District’s
professional musicians;
WHEREAS, Dr. Butler-Truesdale was the founder and chair of DC Legendary
Musicians, Inc., an organization that preserves, protects, and promotes the artistic legacy,
contributions, and well-being of the District’s jazz scene;
WHEREAS, Dr. Butler-Truesdale, was a lifelong advocate, j azz historian, and servant
leader who dedicated herself to the betterment of the District of Columbia;
WHEREAS, throughout her illustrious life, Dr. Butler-Truesdale demonstrated an
unwavering commitment to public service, serving as Chair of the DC Democrat Party, Chair of
the Ward 4 Democrats, C ommissioner of ANC 4C07, Ward 4 Representative to the DC Board of
Education, Chair of the Citizens Advisory Council, Chair of the Communications Workers of
America's Affordable Housing Committee, and Associate Pastor of Metropolitan AME Church;
WHEREAS, Sandra Butler-Truesdale most recently called Southwest and Ward 6 her
home, becoming an active voice to support her neighborhood and extend arts and music
throughout the Southwest community, especially with collaboration on regular cultural and
musical gatherings, such as Westminster Presbyterian Church's well known Friday Night Jazz
series that features legendary District artists and musicians;
WHEREAS, Dr. Butler -Truesdale also served as a prolific author, sharing her profound
knowledge and insights in local publications, enlightening readers about the rich history of the
Black community in the District;
WHEREAS, Dr. Butler -Truesdale’s remarkable leadership was instrumental in the
redevelopment and restoration of the Campbell Heights Senior Citizens Apartments, as well as
the restoration of the historic Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments at 15th & U St., NW;
ENROLLED ORIGINAL
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WHEREAS, Dr. Butler -Truesdale played an integral role in the rejuvenation of the
historic Howard Theatre, a monumental cultural institution that had been dormant for 2 decades;
WHEREAS, her impact stretched beyond the realm of politics, as Dr. Butler -Truesdale
exhibited a deep commitment to empowering the community by nurturing young artists,
supporting local music, and mentoring future leaders;
WHEREAS, her dedication as a DC music historian, along with her work alongside
iconic musicians such as Ray Charles and James Brown, earned her recognition and respect in
the world of music;
WHEREAS, her powerful voice echoed across the District through WPFW Radio (89.3
FM), where she served as a programmer, writer, and producer, notably on shows like "Don't
Forget the Blues" and "Jazz Stories ,” forging connections with countless listeners;
WHEREAS, in one of her last interviews before her passing, Dr. Butler -Truesdale
expressed that she would miss engaging with people, underscoring her deep love for connecting
with others; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Butler -Truesdale’s legacy as an advocate, historian, musician,
community organizer, and mentor serves as an enduring testament to the possibilities of a life
lived with passion, purpose, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of people and
communities.
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “Reverend Doctor Sandra Butler-Truesdale Ceremonial
Recognition Resolution of 2023” .
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes and honors the life and
legacy of Reverend Doctor Sandra Butler-Truesdale as a Washingtonian, a historian, an
advocate, a musician, and a community builder.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.