Reps. Boggs, Miller introduce legislation to name a portion of Route 315 the "Jesse Owens Memorial Highway"

COLUMBUS - State Reps. Adam C. Miller (D-Columbus) and Kristin Boggs (D-Columbus) today introduced legislation that would name a portion of State Route 315 as the “Jesse Owens Memorial Highway.” The Jesse Owens Memorial Highway would run between King Avenue and Broad Street and illustrate the connection between the Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium on campus and his home on the west side of Columbus, where he lived while attending Ohio State.

“Jesse Owens remains an icon and inspiration to all Ohioans.  He overcame discrimination globally and at home and to become perhaps our nation’s greatest Olympic champion,” said Rep. Miller.  “The highway will be a testament to a great American who served his city, state, and country –on and off the track— even in the face of fierce discrimination and hardship.”

“The Jesse Owens Memorial Highway will serve as a permanent fixture in Columbus to honor and commemorate a man who left such an impactful mark on history,” said Rep. Boggs. “Despite the discrimination Jesse Owens faced in the United States and abroad, his strength and perseverance continues to inspire people all around the world.” 

Even though Owens was a world-class student athlete and shattered racial myths globally, including winning four Olympic Gold Medals at the 1936 Games in Berlin, he faced racial discrimination at home and was not permitted to live on campus while attending Ohio State because the university did not have housing for African American students. This legislation would serve as a constant reminder of his achievements, the challenges he faced and serve as an inspiration for future generations.

The legislation now awaits a number and committee assignment.