Pastors Condemn State's Takeover of TSU - Gross Abuse of Power

Legislature, Gov. Lee seek to vacate TSU Board of Trustees

On the heels of a vote by the Tennessee House of Representatives in favor of legislation that vacates the entire Tennessee State University Board of Trustees, a group of pastors affiliated with the Southern Christian Coalition (SCC) condemned what it called the General Assembly's overreach.

Speaking on behalf of the SCC, Rev. Wesley King, a Disciples of Christ pastor in Nashville, said:

"I'm horrified but unfortunately not surprised by the atrocious vote of the Tennessee Supermajority today to vacate the entire Tennessee State University board. Instead of addressing the historic underfunding of TSU, the TN Supermajority has decided that they will use their 'power' as a legislative body to replace the board of trustees and take over the decision making power of the University. This is all at the same time that the Legislature and Governor Lee are passing laws that would make it illegal to discuss "divisive concepts" including diversity, equity, and inclusion at this University. This is just further proof that Governor Lee and the Supermajority are willing to harm, silence, and punish any and all communities as long as it gives them more power. This Holy Week, we are reminded that the Roman Empire killed Jesus for speaking out against the status quo and those who were in power. So just like 2,000 years ago it appears to still be true that those in power, such as the Supermajority Legislature, are willing to harm others in order to assert and be in control. We must come together to let them know that this is immoral, inappropriate, and that Tennesseans stand united against this gross abuse of power."

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