CINCINNATI – City Council unanimously passed an ordinance on March 9, 2016 to rename part of a Downtown street after Cincinnati activist Marian Spencer.

Now, Walnut Street between Theodore Berry Way and Second Street at The Banks is known as Marian Spencer Way, in honor of the civil rights icon. A video of Spencer humbling accepting the honor and discussing her legacy as a trailblazer and politician is posted below.

The ordinance, brought forth by Councilmember Wendell Young, notes Spencer's contributions to the Queen City as a champion of equality and human rights, as well as her career in public service. Spencer was the first black woman elected to Cincinnati City Council and served as Vice Mayor.

The granddaughter of a former slave, Spencer was active in the civil rights movement, fighting to desegregate local facilities and end discrimination. She became the first female president of the Cincinnati NAACP chapter.

Spencer passed away on July 9, 2019 at the age of 99.

Marian Spencer Street Renamed in Honor of Civil Rights Icon (March 9, 2016) from CitiCable on Vimeo.