Senate Passes Smith Legislation Honoring James Marshall “Jimi” Hendrix
December 13, 2018
Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Adam Smith’s (WA-09) legislation designating the post office at 4301 NE 4th Street in Renton, Washington as the James Marshall “Jimi” Hendrix Post Office passed the Senate by Unanimous Consent following its previous passage in the House of Representatives. The legislation was supported by both Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), as well as each member of the Washington State Delegation in the House. The bill now heads to the President’s desk for signature.
“I am honored to join in paying tribute to rock and roll icon and Seattle native Jimi Hendrix with the renaming of the Renton Highlands Post Office as the James Marshall ‘Jimi’ Hendrix Post Office Building. This designation will further celebrate Hendrix’s deep connection to the Puget Sound region and help ensure that his creative legacy will be remembered by our community and inspire future generations.” said Congressman Adam Smith.
“Jimi Hendrix is one of the most influential American artists of all time. This Seattle native son, is truly one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century. In honor of his memory and service to our country, it is truly fitting that we move forward in naming the United States Postal Service located at 4301 Northeast 4th Street in Renton, Washington, as the James Marshall ‘Jimi’ Hendrix Post Office Building. The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle strongly supports this effort and applauds Congress for reminding those that patron this facility that his legacy lives on and his memory is etched in the fabric of our country and community,” said Michelle Merriweather, the President and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle.
“The Northwest African American Museum fully supports the renaming of a local post office to bear the name of Seattle's most recognizable native son, Jimi Hendrix. His legendary artistic genius chartered new territory within world music. While his reach was international in scope, his roots trace back to Seattle and we are proud to richly celebrate his legacy as part of his hometown community. This bill, led by U.S. Congressman Adam Smith, will provide a fitting tribute to a Seattle-born global icon whose humility, generosity, musical giftedness, and timeless brilliance will inspire for generations to come,” said LaNesha DeBardelaben, the Director of Northwest African American Museum.