If you were wondering how some Republicans are celebrating Black History Month, consider a piece of legislation introduced this week by two state lawmakers in Tennessee.
Newsweek reports:
State Representative Paul Sherrell and state Senator Frank Niceley sponsored the bill to change the name of a section of John Lewis Way. According to state general assembly records, Sherrell filed the bill on Tuesday. Niceley filed the state Senate version on Wednesday, which fell on the first day of Black History Month.
John Lewis Way was formerly known as Fifth Avenue, however it was renamed after the late congressman in 2020.
Under the bill, part of the street named for Lewis would become President Donald Trump Boulevard. The area they want to rename is located between Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Boulevard and James Robertson Parkway. So not only would John Lewis be dishonored by their disgusting plan, but also Dr. King.
Councilwoman Zulfat Suara, a Democratic member of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County said she will fight the move with every fiber of her being.
“OMG. I have to take a deep breath so as not to swear! What have this state become! Do some just wake up and propose the next thing that comes to mind. This is not how to govern. This is ridiculous. We are going to fight this.”
Tennessee state Representative Justin Jones (D) also criticized the possible renaming of a portion of the street.
“Tennessee Republicans’ bill to change parts of John Lewis Way to Donald Trump Blvd is about more than a street name. It’s spitting on the grave of our ancestor. It’s memorializing hate. Best believe, we’ll fight back.”
Republicans love to brag that they’re the “party of Lincoln.” But if Lincoln were still alive, they’d probably insist that he bow down and worship Trump or be booted from the party.