Tennessee lawmakers honor Kingwood High School unified bowling team for inclusivity efforts

In the heart of Tennessee's legislative chamber, a spirit of celebration and recognition filled the air during the House Floor Session on March 6, 2025. As representatives gathered, the spotlight shone brightly on the Kingwood High School Bowling team, a group that has become a beacon of inclusivity in sports. Their journey, marked by resilience and teamwork, was honored by several lawmakers who took turns expressing their pride and admiration.

Representative Burkhart led the accolades, emphasizing the importance of the team's achievements not just for the students but for the entire community. "This is truly an honor to represent these kids and these parents and coaches," he remarked, highlighting the collective effort that has fostered an inclusive environment at Kenwood High School. Melissa, a co-founder of the team, shared her pride in the impact they have made over the past three years, urging others to replicate their success in promoting inclusiveness in sports across the state.

The session also served as a platform for personal celebrations, with representatives acknowledging significant anniversaries and birthdays, including a heartfelt tribute to a young constituent celebrating her 100th birthday. The camaraderie among lawmakers was palpable as they welcomed various groups visiting the Capitol, including the Leadership Team from the local high school and the Monroe County Youth Excellence program.

As the session progressed, the tone shifted to a moment of reflection. Leader Love reminded members of the historical significance of March 7, marking the anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches. He called for a moment of silence to honor those who fought for voting rights, a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality.

The meeting concluded with procedural discussions, including deadlines for amendments and the introduction of new bills, but the echoes of celebration and recognition lingered. The day encapsulated a blend of community spirit, legislative duty, and a commitment to fostering inclusivity, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose as they continue their work in the Tennessee House of Representatives.