The following is a statement from Rep. Antonio Parkinson, Chairman of the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators:
“We are appreciative that the State Building Commission has done the right thing in voting to remove the Nathan Bedford Forrest bust from it’s position in the most powerful building on our land: the Tennessee State Capitol. While this move signifies a great first step in beginning to heal our divided state, we understand that this is a sensitive matter to some and a symbolic victory to others. We also understand that there is a bigger issue at stake and this is becoming a Tennessee where all people feel welcome and free to thrive and prosper. Now let’s get back to the business of improving access to quality health care, providing a quality education for all residents and putting money into the households of hard working Tennesseans.”
