Minneapolis Considers Renaming Edmund Boulevard To Honor Civil Rights Icon Lena Smith

Minneapolis Considers Renaming Edmund Boulevard To Honor Civil Rights Icon Lena Smith

The city of Minneapolis is making strides towards reconciliation with its past discriminatory practices by considering the renaming of Edmund Boulevard to Lena Smith Boulevard. A public hearing was held yesterday, with the Planning Commission starting the legislative process for the name change. For those who wish to partake, further opportunities to comment will arise as the proposal moves through the stages of approval, with the Business, Housing, and Zoning Committee reviewing it on September 2 and the City Council casting the final vote on September 11, as reported by official sources.

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The renaming effort is spearheaded by the 'Reclaiming Edmund' neighborhood coalition and local officials, who oppose the legacy of the boulevard's namesake, Edmund G. Walton. His implementation of racially restrictive covenants in property deals established a precedent for legal segregation in Minneapolis, the consequences of which linger in the form of racial disparities. The coalition, having labored nearly five years, conducted surveys in which Lena Olive Smith, a pioneer in the fight against racial injustice, was chosen as the new namesake for the street. "This is not a legacy that should be celebrated nor reflective of the values of our great City of Minneapolis," a statement obtained by official communication expressed.

Minneapolis is also dealing with the aftereffects of a Federal Raid that took place on June 3, at Lake & Bloomington. An After Action Review is slated for presentation today, with the city's Independent City Auditor divulging findings on the raid and the city's involvement, particularly concerning the impact on its immigrant communities and adherence to the separation ordinance. The involvement of various federal agencies in the raid has raised concerns among residents, which they can address during the public comment period following the presentation. Details of the review and information on how to participate in the public comment process were shared by official sources.

In a move towards fostering inclusivity, the City of Minneapolis is also gearing up for its Trans Equity Summit on August 11. The event, themed "Trans Equity and Intergenerational Power: Strengthening the Future by Honoring Our Past," aims to connect trans and gender nonconforming community members with resources, each other, and knowledge on pertinent issues. Registration is open for this free day-long summit, which will take place at the McNamara Alumni Center.

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