MEMPHIS, Tenn. — What’s in a name? Well, apparently a lot if you’re a member of the city council and you want the authority to name things in Memphis.
Council members did just that Tuesday when they voted to take away that power from the Land Use Control Board and give it to themselves. So from now on, the council will be in charge of naming – or renaming – streets, parks, and other public places.
And if you think this is just a bunch of politicians thirsting for power, you’re partly right. And yet, I see nothing wrong with elected officials – rather than non-elected ones – making decisions about the names on our streets and parks. It improves accountability, and in theory, creates more transparency.
That said, I hope this vote is not a precursor to renaming Poplar Avenue in front of the Criminal Justice Center Black Lives Matter Avenue.
Some council members are clearly angling to make that change. But I say no. Not because there should not be a street in Memphis officially named Black Lives Matter. Just not that section of Poplar. I think it creates terrible optics if the local jail, criminal courtrooms, and a row of bail bonding companies are located along Black Lives Matter Avenue. Simply as that.
So council members, I’m okay with the naming rights in your hands. But please, use that power for the public good. Not for ego trips. And that’s my point of view.