Provides relative to the burial of certain persons
The resolution emphasizes the importance of upholding human dignity in life and death. By mandating the removal of discriminatory practices in cemeteries, HCR66 aims to ensure that all citizens, regardless of race, have equal access to burial in cemeteries of their choice. This move reflects a broader commitment to eliminating racial discrimination in public facilities and reinforces legislative intent under both the U.S. Constitution and Louisiana's own Constitution, which prohibits racial discrimination in public spaces.
House Concurrent Resolution 66 (HCR66) addresses discriminatory practices within cemeteries in Louisiana by directing all cemetery authorities and organizations in the state to eliminate any racially restrictive covenants and race-based restrictions from their operating documents. The resolution emerged from a context where certain cemeteries retained outdated and discriminatory practices that prevented individuals from being buried based on their race. The case that prompted this bill was an incident in January 2021, where a police officer's family was denied a burial plot due to such racially restrictive language still present in a cemetery's bylaws.
The sentiment surrounding HCR66 is generally positive, as it seeks to promote equality and dignity for all citizens in a sensitive area of public life—burial practices. Legislative discussion likely highlighted the moral imperative to address past injustices and ensure that such discrimination is no longer tolerated in Louisiana. Supporters of the resolution view it as a necessary step toward rectifying historical inequities and fostering greater inclusivity in societal practices.
While HCR66 aims for widespread support, there may be underlying contention regarding the historical context of cemeteries and how such change is instituted. Some stakeholders might express concern about the operational challenges for existing cemeteries in complying with the changes mandated by this resolution. Moreover, the reaction from cemetery authorities who have historically operated under these restrictions could vary, with some potentially resisting change based on tradition or operational concerns.