Rep. Hakeem announces funding for Bessie Smith Cultural Center

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s 2023-2024 budget includes funding for the Bessie Smith Cultural Center.

State Rep. Yusuf Hakeen worked with the governor to ensure the grant was included in the budget. The legislature approved the budget just last week.

The state is granting this local center with $250,000.

The Bessie Smith Cultural Center is located on East M L King Boulevard in Chattanooga.

It honors world-famous blues singer, Bessie Smith. A Chattanooga native, Smith started her career by performing on street corners. And many know her as the “Empress of Blues.”

The Cultural Center aims to preserve and celebrate African-American history and culture. They also feature Chattanooga-based art, education, research and entertainment.

Hakeem gladly announced the grant on Tuesday.

“I am very pleased and thankful that the Bessie Smith Cultural Center is the recipient of an investment by Governor Lee and my fellow legislators,” Hakeem said. “The funding will aid the Bessie Smith in reaching its full potential of sharing history.”