ORLANDO, Fla. – A stretch of West South Street in downtown Orlando now bears the name of the late State Sen. Geraldine F. Thompson, honoring a lawmaker and historian whose life’s work centered on education, public service and preserving Black history.
City and state leaders unveiled the new street sign Friday morning during a ceremony held just steps from the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, a site Thompson founded and spent years fighting to preserve.
The roadway is now officially designated “Senator Geraldine F. Thompson Way.”
Leaders said the location was intentionally chosen to reflect Thompson’s legacy and lifelong commitment to safeguarding history and uplifting the community.
“She stood for the community, she stood for history; she believed in lifting people up, giving them that second chance,” said Paula Hoisington, a community leader who spoke to News 6 during the ceremony. “Once you know, then there’s no excuse for not moving forward.”
[WATCH: Remembering Florida Sen. Geraldine Thompson, trailblazing Orlando lawmaker]
Thompson served Central Florida for more than four decades, working as an educator, historian and lawmaker. Her public service included time in both the Florida House and Senate, where she was widely recognized as a leading voice on issues related to education, civil rights and historic preservation.
State Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis also addressed the crowd, calling the dedication a lasting reminder of Thompson’s impact.
“She fought so hard to preserve Black history,” Bracy Davis said. “While she fought to preserve the history of others, I think selflessly we should preserve her history, preserve her name.”
Officials said the street renaming ensures Thompson’s contributions and legacy will continue to be recognized for generations.
The Wells’Built Museum, located along the renamed stretch, was a focal point of Thompson’s advocacy and stands as a symbol of the history she worked to protect.
Residents say the recognition is fitting for a woman whose impact spanned generations.
“Well, that would be good that she’s going to be recognized for the things that she did for the community,” said Otis Clark, a longtime resident.
Thompson died unexpectedly in February from complications from knee surgery. She was 76 years old.
[WATCH: Family, friends honor the legacy of the late Sen. Geraldine Thompson]
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said Thompson’s influence reached far beyond city limits.
“Senator Geraldine Thompson impacted our community and our state in many different ways over the years,” Dyer said in a statement to News 6. “Through her work as an educator, historian and elected official, she was committed to uplifting all people. We are thankful that our city can celebrate her legacy.”