Quinta Brunson honoured with key to West Philadelphia

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Quinta Brunson, the Emmy-winning creator, returned to her roots in West Philadelphia last week for a heartwarming celebration.

On 28 May, she was awarded the key to the city by Philadelphia’s Mayor Cherelle Parker at her old school, Andrew Hamilton Elementary.

QUINTA BRUNSON’S RETURN TO WEST PHILADELPHIA

The event was filled with pride, laughter, and a deep sense of community.

Mayor Parker warmly declared, “Quinta Brunson, this is your city and you are ours!” handing over the symbolic key amidst cheers from students, family, and local officials, according to BET.

Brunson, ever the comedian, joked, “What does it open?” before reflecting on the moment with gratitude.

“Even when I first walked in the door, I was like, ‘Oh, I’m home. I’m home. I’m in Philly,” she said. “This gym felt so big when I was a kid. Being back here feels like coming home”.

QUINTA BRUNSON AND ‘BLOOMING FUTURES’

The celebration also featured the unveiling of a vibrant new mural titled Blooming Futures on the school’s exterior.

The mural was created by Philadelphia artist Athena Scott in collaboration with Brunson and Mural Arts Philadelphia.

Unlike the original plan to feature characters from Abbott Elementary, Brunson insisted the mural showcase real faces from the community — students, teachers, and neighbours.

“You don’t need to see famous people on the wall. You need to see you on the wall. Painted, beautiful. We are beautiful. It makes a difference,” she explained.

QUINTA BRUNSON AND ABOTT ELEMENTARY

Brunson’s mother, Norma Jean, a former kindergarten teacher in Philadelphia public schools, was present and applauded.

Brunson credited her mother and other educators for inspiring the heartfelt stories in Abbott Elementary.

“This woman had five kids, and then she had 30 more in her classroom, and that’s what let me know that education is not just a job, it is a lifelong dedication,” she said.

SUPPORTING THE KIDS

Before the event wrapped up, surprised the crowd by pledging R1 million (approximately R 1,000,000) split between two local nonprofits.

One supports music education, and another provides fresh groceries to children in need.

“Supporting our kids is everything,” she said. This generous donation reflects her ongoing commitment to uplifting her community.

For fans eager for more Abbott Elementary, Quinta Brunson confirmed that the fifth season is already in the works. “We just started in the writers’ room last week,” she shared. “I’m excited about what’s coming next”.

HOPE AND PRIDE

Brunson’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, education, and representation. Her journey from West Philly to global acclaim shows how local roots can inspire worldwide success.

As she said, “We have to see ourselves in the big picture. That’s how we know there’s a tomorrow. That’s how we know there’s a community to take care of”.

In a world craving authentic stories and role models, Quinta Brunson shines as a beacon of hope and pride.