Tennessee Lawmakers Reinstated Amid Gun Reform Advocacy

Two Tennessee lawmakers who were forced out of the state’s Republican-controlled legislature were reinstated this week—and they vowed to continue their call for gun reform.

Justin Jones and Justin J. Pearson—two Black Democrats—had been expelled over a gun control demonstration that took place on the House floor on Friday, April 7. Jones and Pearson led the protest along with fellow Rep. Gloria Johnson, a White Democrat. She was not expelled.

The protest came in the wake of a school shooting last month that left three children and three adults dead in Nashville. Furthermore, Jones, Pearson, and Johnson led the protest without being recognized, CNN affiliate WSMV reported. They used a bullhorn as demonstrators at the Capitol called on lawmakers to take action. A vote was held over rules violations, and consequently, Jones and Pearson were ousted.

State law allows local legislative bodies to appoint interim House members to fill the seats of expelled lawmakers until an election is held. Jones was reappointed Monday by the Nashville Metropolitan Council. Similarly, Pearson was reappointed Wednesday by the Shelby County Board of Commissioners.

“You cannot expel hope,” a triumphant Pearson told cheering supporters Wednesday. “You can’t expel our voice and you sure can’t expel our fight. We look forward to continuing to fight, continuing to advocate.” This determination reflects the ongoing struggle for gun reform and underscores the lawmakers’ commitment to their cause.