By Briasia Russ

Rosa Franklin is the first Black woman to serve as a Washington state senator and in her honor, Tacoma Park will be renamed after her. According to King News, the park was originally named after the country’s founder, Benjamin Franklin.  

This is big for the Tacoma Community. Well done @metparkstacoma @CityofTacoma and all those that have recognized the work of Senator Rosa Franklin! pic.twitter.com/ybuK58jgJ9

— Brandon Ervin (@BrandonErvinSr) July 8, 2021

Franklin has dedicated her time to public service and community work. She established the health care council and the Washington Housing Policy Act. She also established affordable housing with the same act.  

Mayor Victoria Woodward spoke about how Franklin has become an inspiration for Washington’s Black female politicians.  

“Because there was a Rosa Franklin, because there was a Dolores Silas, there’s a Victoria Woodards, and a Marilyn Strickland, and a T’wina Nobles,” said Woodards.  

94-year-old Franklin says she isn’t finished working and is excited to see what’s in store. 

“I have great faith in the future because I look back at our history, and I know where we came from,” Franklin said. “So, without hope and faith, you’ll never make it.”