TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Stacey Shrader Joslin on Apr 20, 2026

Nashville yesterday celebrated its first Z. Alexander Looby Day, which will be marked each April 19 to commemorate the prominent attorney and civil rights activist. On April 19, 1960, the home of Looby, who was a sitting city councilmember, was bombed. That led to a march of 4,000 people to City Hall, where student activist Diane Nash confronted then-mayor Ben West about segregation. Davidson County historian Dr. Learotha Williams Jr. led the effort to establish the day to recognize Looby and his legacy. At an event yesterday, he read the mayor’s proclamation designating the day in what is now known as Diane Nash Plaza. He also noted the significance of reading the proclamation on the Public Square, a place where African Americans were once bought and sold, and where Native Americans passed through on the Trail of Tears. The Nashville Banner has more on the event. Also yesterday, the city marked the 4th annual Diane Nash Commemorative March according to WSMV.