Committee moves forward resolution to rename portion of Whittlerley Avenue for activist Shirley Archie Jr.

The General Services, Health and Environment Committee voted to forward Resolution 59.61.25, a proposal to rename a portion of Whittlerley Avenue in honor of Shirley Archie Jr., whose activism the sponsor said inspired neighborhood participation in regular demonstrations and civic actions. Committee Chair Jack Flynn read excerpts of the resolution describing Archie’s life and activism, including his service as an intelligence officer in Vietnam, his subsequent activism against racism and participation in peace walks and other civic projects. "At the intersection of Central Avenue and Worthing Avenue, Archie's activism drew a following of over concerned members, inspiring them to join him at noon every first Saturday of the month," Flynn read aloud from the resolution text. The committee voted to advance the resolution with a positive recommendation; the motion passed by voice vote. The measure will now go to the full council for final adoption before any official renaming occurs.