Austin City Council members voted 6-0 at the Aug. 23 meeting to give a section of Fourth Street—between Congress Avenue and Rio Grande Street—the honorary name of Bettie Naylor Avenue.

Libby Sykora, Naylor's partner, spoke to the council saying Naylor would be "tremendously" honored by the recognition.

"Bettie woke up every day with a desire to know and do what she could for her community, and it was in no regard to race, religion or social standing," Sykora said. "There was no one unworthy of her time and her efforts to make this a better community for all of us. But I think this honor is especially outstanding that we have a council progressive enough to look at this great honor for this wonderful woman."

Naylor died in April at 85 years old and, throughout her life, was active in the Austin community by founding and supporting numerous organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, the Texas and National Women's Political Caucus, Out Youth—an organization that supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex youth—and many others.

Councilwoman Laura Morrison said Naylor's achievements and passion for the Austin community makes the recognition "entirely fitting."

"Bettie was a fierce advocate for the LGBT community and women's rights," she said. "She worked tirelessly for people and helping them stand up to find their voice."

The resolution adopted by the council states "we are a better community, a better city, a better state and better nation because of Bettie Naylor, and she is proof that one person can make a difference."

Morrison said the council received feedback from the community supporting the resolution.

"This has a lot of meaning for a lot of people," Morrison said.

Signs designating the portion of Fourth Street between Congress Avenue and Rio Grande Street as Bettie Naylor Avenue are expected to go up in September.