The City Planning Commission votes to change the name of Robert E. Lee Blvd to Toussaint Blvd, putting the name change just one step away from becoming reality. The four-mile stretch of road running parallel to the lake in Lakeview and Gentilly was among the 37 buildings and roads tapped to lose their Confederate or racist namesakes.
The City Council is expected to approve the change at their January 6th meeting.
Outgoing Councilman Jared Brossett proposed the street name change. He spoke to the Commission before they signed off on the new name.
“In 2021 I believe that Robert E. Lee should not be glorified with a street name, and he should be relegated to our history books,” said Brossett who added this isn’t the first time this stretch has seen a name change. “In 1924 the street was named Robert E. Lee Blvd. to reinforce those white supremacist values.”
Brossett called Lee “one of our country’s most egregious white supremacists”, and said replacing his name with legendary producer, writer, and pianist Allen Toussaint sends a strong message.
“It underscores the importance of celebrating the accomplishments of our Black residents and our local and national history,” said Brossett.
