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A Resolution honoring the life of Mr. Yusef Harris.
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WHEREAS, longtime Jefferson Street business owner Mr. Yusef Harris died earlier this month at the age of 66; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Harris opened Nashville's first Black bookstore, Alkebu-Lan Images, in 1986 while pursuing his doctorate in psychology at Vanderbilt University and teaching part-time at Tennessee State University. He was able to purchase the property, which he credited with the success of the business; and
WHEREAS, Alkebu-Lan has been a cornerstone of the North Nashville community for more than 35 years. The shop sells books, art, apparel, and other goods that reflect and celebrate African culture; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Harris encouraged people to read more and to be conscious of their culture, heritage, and history, especially African-Americans. He was a promoter and advocate of education and he specialized in Children's books to ensure that the African American history was known for generations to come; and
WHEREAS, to many, Alkebu-Lan felt like a home away from home. His son, Jordan, worked in the store at a young age and eventually became his business partner as they invested in other properties throughout the North Nashville community, ensuring the Black presence would never be forgotten; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Harris mentored and advised hundreds of Black business owners and is remembered for hosting poets and spoken-word artists at open-mic nights and storytelling for children; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Harris was a beloved member of the Nashville community, impacted thousands of lives with his commitment to uplift positive images of Black people, and was an anchor in North Nashville; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan County Council honor and remember the life of Mr. Yusef Harris.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as honoring the life...
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