We call on Georgia leaders to remove Eugene Talmadge’s name from Savannah’s bridge and work with Savannah residents, historians, and community organizations to select a replacement that reflects the city’s values and history.

Eugene Talmadge was a racist, segregationist, and denied equal opportunity for Black Georgians. Yet, his name stands on a bridge that welcomes visitors into a Black-majority city. Many residents are still fighting to be heard on the issues that matter most, including climate resilience and neighborhood investment.

Local Savannah leaders have supported removing the name from Talmadge Memorial Bridge, but the state of Georgia has continued to keep it. Why does Georgia still choose to honor a politician whose legacy was built on segregation and white supremacy?

Potential replacements could include a local civil rights leader, educator, community advocate, or other figure whose contributions helped shape Savannah. We believe Savannah residents deserves a landmark that honors those who worked to expand opportunity, justice, equality, and dignity for all.