Denton to Address ‘Whites Only' Cemetery Language

A North Texas City Council will consider an ordinance renouncing language in a cemetery's deed saying burial plots are only for whites.

The Denton City Council will consider the ordinance Tuesday addressing the restriction in the 1933 deed between the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Cemetery and the city.

The ordinance calls the restriction "illegal, unenforceable, unconscionable, contrary and repugnant to the philosophy, principals and beliefs of the" city.

The ordinance says the restriction hasn't been enforced since at least 1948.

Civil rights activist Willie Hudspeth, who brought the issue up, says he's appreciative of the city's speed in addressing it.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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