“Segregation now, segregation forever.” - George Wallace; Inaugural Address, 1963

This was the former but not forgotten pledge given by the former governor of Alabama, George Wallace; the same George Wallace that physically stood in front of the entrance of the University of Alabama to prevent Black students from enrolling and attending the University.

How is it, then, that the street that carries people far and wide to one of the most beautiful college campus in the South, Troy University, carries the name of such a seemingly evil man with hatred, bigotry, and blatant racism in his heart?

South George Wallace Drive carries you to the great Troy University, a school that prides itself on being an “international” university of inclusivity. 

In the wake of the senseless murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and George Floyd, it is absolutely necessary to use this time to make lasting change in our communities. Just this week, the Troy University Police Chief has revealed his racist tendencies and did not hold back a bit. Troy, Alabama: it is not the time to just say we should do better, it is the time to actually do better. 

As a proud Troy graduate and former resident of Troy, Alabama, I plead with you to make a difference and allow the name change of George Wallace Drive to honor Civil Rights Activist and Troy Native, Congressman John Lewis. Congressman Lewis was an integral part of the civil rights movement and deserves to be recognized in a place that prides itself on being a place where the mind thinks, the heart feels, and the body acts.