File #: RS2025-1000   
Type: Resolution Status: Passed
File created: 1/13/2025 In control: Metropolitan Council
On agenda: 1/21/2025 Final action: 1/23/2025
Title: A resolution honoring the life and legacy of Vencen Horsley.
Sponsors: Jordan Huffman, Erin Evans, Joy Styles, Jennifer Gamble, Russ Bradford, Tasha Ellis, Burkley Allen, Zulfat Suara, Jacob Kupin, Quin Evans-Segall, Terry Vo, Tom Cash, Kyonzte Toombs, Clay Capp, Delishia Porterfield, Bob Nash, Sandy Ewing

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A resolution honoring the life and legacy of Vencen Horsley.

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WHEREAS, Vencen Horsley was born on September 19, 1943, in Hermitage, Tennessee, to Cora Lee Horsley and Lee Roy Horsley, and from an early age exemplified a steadfast commitment to faith, community, and justice; and

WHEREAS, Vencen Horsley was, from an early age, a member at Stateland Baptist Church and graduated from Pearl High School in 1962 before matriculating at Tennessee State University, where he became deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement as an active member of the Nashville Student Movement fighting for justice and equal rights; and

WHEREAS, Vencen Horsley demonstrated unwavering courage in the face of adversity by participating in the Nashville sit-ins alongside Civil Rights icons such as John Lewis, marches, and countless other civil rights activities, and was proud to have been jailed seven times for engaging in what he called "good trouble" in pursuit of equality for all; and

WHEREAS, Vencen Horsley dedicated 44 years of service to the Dupont Company, where he served as Vice President and President of the Old Hickory Employee Union, working tirelessly to ensure that every employee was treated fairly and with respect; and

WHEREAS, Vencen Horsley further extended his passion for justice and equality into the realm of politics, advocating for the voices of the often overlooked and continuing his mission for equality throughout his lifetime; and

WHEREAS, Vencen Horsley is survived by his wife Doris Branch Horsley; daughter, Kelly Bailey (Damien); brother, Wayne Horace (Hannah); grandson, Marcus Bailey; granddaughter, Mariah Bailey; niece, Bri Horsley; nephews, Tyrone Horsley (Laura) of Riverside, CA, Antonio Horsley and Terence Graves and many close friends; and

WHEREAS, Vencen Horsley's life and legacy serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith, perseverance, and a commitment to the greater good.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as honoring the extraordinary life of Vencen Horsley, recognizing his invaluable contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, his dedication to fairness and equality, and his unwavering commitment to justice for all.

Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.