NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — The Metro Council this week announced the resurgence of its Black Caucus, a group of nearly a dozen council members focused on issues impacting Nashville’s African American community.

Council Member Jennifer Gamble, who will co-chair the caucus, said the timing is critical.

“This is coming at a needed time in Nashville,” Gamble said.

Gamble emphasized the history segregation in Nashville, in which she said after effects can still be felt today.

“Lack of access to affordable housing, gentrification, and displacement are top of mind for me,” she said. “What is particularly timely right now in Nashville is how our zoning laws have impacted Black Nashvillians.”

Nashville elected its first Black council members in the 1950s. The Black Caucus formally formed in the early 2000s before eventually becoming a broader Minority Caucus that included people of color.

Now, 11 council members are regrouping as a Black Caucus to ensure that the African American community remains a focus.

“The goal is to focus on legislation that can help improve outcomes for African American communities,” said Jasper Hendricks, a Democratic strategist.

Gamble said the caucus draws inspiration from the civil rights leaders who paved the way.

“This Black Caucus stands on the shoulders of civil rights leaders who came before us and changed, protested policy,” she said. “What we’re trying to do is bring back that bold leadership and energy to continue tackling the same issues.”

The first meeting of the revived Metro Nashville Black Caucus is scheduled for Tuesday, July 22, and will be open to the public.