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SJR 1139

Memorials, Recognition - Negro Women's Civic Club of Greeneville, 75th anniversary -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Southerland

SJR 1139 formally recognizes the Negro Women's Civic Club of Greeneville for 75 years of service, including scholarships, voter registration, and community programs.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · SJR 1139

Summary of Bill: SJR 1139 (Session 114) — Tennessee

Overview

  • Type: Senate Joint Resolution (SJR)
  • Purpose: Honor and commemorate the Negro Women's Civic Club of Greeneville on its 75th anniversary.
  • Sponsor: Senator Southerland (co-sponsor noted as Steve Southerland)
  • Date of action: Introduced and passed first consideration on April 15, 2026; filed for introduction on April 14, 2026.
  • Jurisdiction: Tennessee

What the bill does

  • SJR 1139 expresses formal recognition and commendation of the Negro Women's Civic Club of Greeneville for its 75 years of service to the Greeneville community.
  • It acknowledges the club’s founding date (June 11, 1950) and highlights its historical context, including work during a period of segregation.
  • The resolution notes the club’s key activities and contributions over the decades:
    • Community service to the Black community in Greeneville
    • Charitable initiatives such as Christmas food baskets and other assistance
    • Scholarships for graduating seniors
    • Voter registration drives
    • Youth recreational programs
    • Support for local businesses, churches, and community projects
  • Historical milestones mentioned:
    • Founding members (Lena B. Lee and seven others)
    • A founding motto: “to build a better Greeneville”
    • A donation of the club’s present building and property by Hanna Farnsworth-Crum in 1981
    • Early fundraising for a segregated Black community swimming pool; the pool opened in August 1954 in front of George Clem School

Who/what is affected

  • The bill primarily affects the recognition of a private civic organization—the Negro Women's Civic Club of Greeneville.
  • It does not mandate new policies, funding, or regulatory changes.
  • The resolution is ceremonial and symbolic in nature, intended to publicly honor the club’s legacy and ongoing impact.

Key provisions and language

  • Formal designation of the Negro Women's Civic Club of Greeneville as an organization worthy of commendation on the occasion of its 75th anniversary.
  • A statement of best wishes for continued success.
  • Provision for an appropriately worded copy of the resolution to be prepared for presentation.
  • The final copy may be disseminated without legislative identifiers (House/Senate designation) per the concluding clause.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • The resolution is a commemorative measure, typical of recognizing historical organizations.
  • Status: Introduced and advanced past First Consideration as of April 15, 2026.
  • As a joint resolution, it serves to honor rather than regulate, requiring no funding or statutory changes.

Significance

  • The bill serves as a historical acknowledgment of a long-standing neighborhood organization that contributed to community welfare, civil rights-era community development, and ongoing service in Greeneville.
  • It highlights local leadership and community-building efforts by African American residents during and after segregation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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