Who should we honor?

Let's name that peninsula already!

A recent article in the Austin-Statesman revealed an unnamed peninsula on the north shore of Lady Bird Lake, and it's high time we gave it a name that reflects the diverse and progressive history of our city.

This "no-name" peninsula is located in an area that has been home to Latino communities since World War II, a fact that should be central to its new identity. Here are some possible honorees:

• Danny Camacho: Community historian and son of activist Lorraine "Grandma" Camacho, a dedicated advocate for East Austin.

• Josefina Zamarippa: A mother of 14 who tirelessly advocated for her community while raising her large family.

• Alicia García: An organizer who worked to fix Boggy Creek and improve the lives of those in Govalle, a neighboring area that has also faced environmental challenges.

• Soledad Guardiola Guajardo: One of the few female business leaders in a male-dominated world, running a community grocery store and becoming a power broker before Hispanics could hold office.

These suggestions are just a starting point, and there are doubtless many other worthy candidates who fought against environmental racism and for social justice in our city.

Let's also not forget the green warriors who have preserved our natural spaces. Recent research by documentary maker Karen Kocher highlights that Austin's green activism goes back further than the 1970s. Here are some environmental advocates who have already been commemorated with place names:

• Lady Bird Johnson: Our lake's namesake, who also has a wildflower center named after her.

• Roberta Crenshaw: A lookout point in Zilker Park offers beautiful views, just as Crenshaw helped us see a greener path for our city.

• Emma Long: Her namesake park is a gem, a reminder of Long's legacy of environmental stewardship.

As we consider naming this peninsula, let's also remember the many environmental champions still fighting for justice today. Their work is not done, and we should use this opportunity to highlight the ongoing struggle for a greener, more equitable Austin.

We invite the community to send in suggestions and nominations to honor these inspiring individuals and continue the conversation about the intersection of social and environmental justice in our city.

It's time to give that peninsula a name, and in doing so, celebrate the diverse history and ongoing legacy of activism in Austin.

Send your thoughts and suggestions to "Austin Answered" at mbarnes@statesman. Let's keep rewriting our city's story, together.