Urges and requests the Port of New Orleans to rename the St. Claude Avenue Bridge to the Homer Plessy Bridge
Impact
If adopted, the renaming of the St. Claude Avenue Bridge would serve as a symbolic gesture towards acknowledging and confronting the history of racial inequality in the United States. It provides an opportunity for reflection on the struggles against the 'separate but equal' doctrine established by the Supreme Court case, which upheld racial segregation for decades. This move could inspire educational initiatives and cultural recognition of Plessy’s contributions to the ongoing fight for equality and against systemic racism.
Summary
House Resolution 93 (HR93) urges and requests the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans to rename the St. Claude Avenue Bridge in honor of Homer Plessy, a significant figure in the American civil rights movement. Plessy, who was involved in the landmark Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson, epitomized the struggle against racial segregation. By designating this bridge as the 'Homer Plessy Bridge', the resolution aims to honor his legacy and promote awareness about the historical context of his actions and their impact on civil rights in the United States.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HR93 appears to be predominantly positive, particularly among civil rights advocates and supporters of historical recognition efforts. The resolution is seen as a necessary step to acknowledge the importance of Plessy’s legacy in American history. However, there may also be dissent from those who oppose changes to historical names or question the implications of renaming public landmarks.
Contention
While there may be general support for honoring Homer Plessy, there might also be underlying contention regarding the implications of renaming public infrastructure and the politicization of historical figures. Discussions around whether to prioritize the recognition of historical injustices through public memorials can lead to debates about local heritage and identity. Such discussions are essential for community engagement, as they open dialogues about the past and how it shapes present societal structures.
Recognizes the 120th anniversary of the landmark United States Supreme Court Plessy v. Ferguson decision, and encourages President Barack Obama to bestow the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously upon Homer Adolph Plessy.
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to provide information on the number of closures and repairs to the Judge Seeber Bridge over the past seven years
Urges and requests the New Orleans Civil Service Commission to allow the nonjudicial portion of its meetings to be televised from New Orleans City Council chambers
Urgently requests additional assistance and resources to fight crime in New Orleans, and designates this resolution as "The Briana "Bri" Allen Resolution for Peace".
Urges and requests the Port of New Orleans to hold town hall meetings in every St. Bernard Parish Council district regarding the proposed Louisiana International Terminal
Requests DOTD, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and the city of New Orleans to expedite planning and construction of a fishing pier on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain near the Highway 11 bridge.