Petition in Honor San Coleman for the Installation of Lighting and Renaming of Walking Trail near intersection of Oak Ridge Avenue and Vine Street, Athens, Georgia.

UPDATED 3/20/2025.

PLEASE NOTE: In order to fulfill the requirements of a trail name change in Athens-Clarke County, this petition requires at least 400 signatures, of which 60 signatures or one third of the signatures (133 signatures) must be within a one mile radius of Trail Creek Trail. You must be a current resident of Athens-Clarke County and over the age of 18 to sign this petition. As such, it is necessary that you sign this petition with your name and address to verify that you are an Athens resident.

On October 19th, San Coleman, a member of the LGBTQ community, was found critically injured on a walking trail behind the Chicopee Complex in Athens, Georgia, and later succumbed to injuries after being transported to the hospital. San was greatly loved by family and the Athens community, and while the cause of death is still being investigated, the family believes that San was attacked and murdered.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, San is the 24th transgender and/or gender-expansive individual to be killed in Georgia since 2013. However, transgender and gender-expansive deaths are often under- and mis-reported, so this number is likely higher. There is no excuse for this violence, and action must be taken.

Therefore, the Athens community respectfully requests the installation of adequate lighting along Trail Creek Trail, as well as the renaming of the trail in honor of San Coleman. In doing so, this will accomplish:

Enhancing Safety:
The lack of sufficient lighting on Trail Creek Trail poses safety concerns for pedestrians, joggers, cyclists, and families. Well-lit trails encourage usage and ensure that everyone can enjoy the space without fear of accidents or incidents.

Honoring a Legacy:
San Coleman was a beloved member of both Athens and LGBTQ community. Renaming the trail in San’s honor will serve as a lasting tribute to San’s impact and dedication to the Athens community.

We urge the Athens-Clarke County Government to act promptly in addressing this matter to benefit current and future generations, especially in a time where anti-transgender rhetoric is becoming more prevalent. Together, we can create a safer and more inspiring space for all. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

The Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement & SONG Athens