MEMPHIS, Tenn — Monday, city council members spoke in support of the name change saying it will be symbolic for the city. Councilwoman Michalyn Easter-Thomas says the name change is a cry out for equality.
It’s not the only push for change. Memphis saw two Strike for Black Lives events on Monday as well. The first on Union Avenue at McDonald’s where workers stood for racial equity and a pay of 15 dollars an hour. The second took place on Sycamore View, where AT&T Mobility workers participated in a strike that took place nationwide.
An hour before in downtown, city leaders pushed for a name change to Memphis’ Poplar Avenue.
“Yes, this street renaming is symbolic,” said Councilwoman Michalyn Easter-Thomas. “Symbolic people have been forced to endure in this country since its inception.”
Councilwoman Easter-Thomas stated the renaming is bigger than the organization Black Lives Matter.
“The street rename is a cry out for Memphis to see us, fight for us, protect us and to let us live.”
The resolution states that establishing a new street name will serve as an “eternal reminder for the need to ensure equity.” It has seven sponsors who support Poplar Avenue between Front Street to Danny Thomas Boulevard to be renamed Black Lives Matter Avenue.
“This particular stretch was chosen because it highlights where our deepest and darkest secrets lie,” said Easter-Thomas. “It shows where we spend most of our government and our citizens tax dollars.”
“We are at a paradigm shift in the city of Memphis,” said Councilman JB Smiley Jr. “We have leaders who are courageous enough to do what’s right.”
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Easter-Thomas says the name change would be a continuation of various steps ensuring that black lives always matter and a daily symbol for youth.
“For when you are coming to take these seats when you are coming to do these careers and this work in this city to move it forward,” said the councilwoman. “You will be pursued in which to stay here.”
The decision will be voted on by city council Tuesday. It will then go before the Land Use Control Board for additional consideration. A street name committee is also being proposed.