NASHVILLE — A segment of Clarksville Pike in North Nashville was officially renamed in honor of Thelma Harper during a dedication ceremony held on a Saturday at the Bordeaux Library. Harper was the first Black woman elected to the Tennessee Senate.
Harper represented North Nashville in the Tennessee General Assembly for approximately 30 years. Linda Harper stated the new street designation reflects Harper's connection to Bordeaux and its residents. She added that Harper frequently emphasized the importance of economic, community, and personal development for neighborhood prosperity.
Charlane Oliver, who currently serves as a state senator for the district Harper formerly represented, stated that Harper's career influenced her decision to enter public service. Oliver presented a photograph of Harper standing in front of a dump truck during a protest against a proposed landfill in North Nashville. Oliver said Harper's legacy encourages young Black women to pursue leadership positions and elected office.
The dedication ceremony featured musical performances, speech presentations, and refreshments. Attendees were instructed to wear red clothing. Harper was born to a sharecropper and was one of 11 siblings.