William T. Robinson, Jr.

The word is out and there are some monumental changes effecting TSU’s 2012 homecoming parade that don’t seem to set too well with the Nashville community. While there are several drastic changes taking place, the main one is rerouting the parade to encircle the campus of TSU, avoiding using Jefferson Street. The initial response from most community participants is one of disbelief and outrage. The majority of those approached find the big change unrealistic and unwarranted, because traditionally they have become accustomed to the Jefferson Street route. It supports many of the Black businesses and vendors. In fact, there are those who are incensed, wanting to discover who on the TSU committee who would make such an unpopular decision. They feel this is not in the best interest of the 30,000 plus people who look forward every year to attending and participating in the parade.

It is undoubtedly the biggest event wherein the African community, alumni, and friends of TSU come out not only to support TSU but for many of the African businesses and organizations to showcase and advertise their businesses. Word on the street is that the police chief and mayor suggested the change in the parade route due to shootings during the parade in previous years. Although those involved had no affiliation with TSU, many feel that the community is being penalized and inconvenienced. Having more police among the crowd might be a better suggestion, but for now people are trying to understand what they feel is unnecessary change. Some feel this is akin to shutting down a major business or institution because of a shooting to avoid shootings in the future. 

There is a thunder of protest from businesses, perspective vendors, ministers (IMF),   students, and the general public. The circulation of written petitions has begun in protest of the changes. The parade has provided patronage of Black businesses on Jefferson Street and  afforded the crowd a clear and comfortable view of the parade. Most polled feel the change shows a great insensitivity to the wishes of the general public.

Some feel that the parade is being diminished or even dismantled by limiting  participation. Participation fees have doubled. Float requirements have become so rigid it will discourage the use of floats by many organizations. Floats must be purchased or provided by one of four companies recommended by the TSU homecoming committee. The rationalization for the high price in registration fees is justified because registration fees have not risen in 10 years. But wouldn’t a 10-15% increase suffice?

It is my understanding that Sharon Hurt of JUMP was the only one blatantly against these changes. Basically speaking, the committee has taken a traditional and highly anticipated event and turned it inside out, creating turmoil and chaos.    

Whatever happened to ‘leave well enough alone’? Shouldn’t we refrain from reinventing the wheel? If the homecoming committee were working in the best interests of someone, then it doesn’t appear to be the community.

I will be extremely surprised if changes are not made to remedy these unpopular changes. I can only hope that in the future TSU stakeholders and community leaders have a say on such an important event affecting the African American community.