Tennessee GOP Blocks Resolution Honoring Black Grammy Winner Allison Russell But Approves One for White Group Paramore

Nashville, Tenn. (TN Tribune)-Republicans in the Tennessee state legislature are again being accused of racism for how they have handled two of the state’s most famous residents differently. The most recent situation started as legislators attempted to honor two award-winning musical acts from the state. The current controversy of the Tennessee General Assembly began when state Rep. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, offered resolutions to honor two Tennessee-based musical acts who recently won at the Grammy Awards. Paramore won awards for best rock album and best alternative performance at the ceremony. Allison Russell received the best American roots performance award for “Eve Was Black.” The resolution to recognize Paramore passed without objection; however, House Republican Caucus Chair Jeremy Faison, R-Cosby, objected to the resolution for Russell. This move, which sent the resolution for Russell back to committee, is often used to kill bills in the legislature. Grammy winner Allison Russell Paramore lead singer Hayley Williams While Faison and other Republicans have yet to give a reason for the different outcomes, many have noted that Russell is a queer Black woman, whereas the members of Paramore are white. Furthermore, Russell and Paramore lead singer Hayley Williams have been outspoken in their left-leaning politics...