Us Congress House Bill HB865

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act

Impact

If enacted, the bill outlines a plan for the gold medal to be presented posthumously to honor the service of African Americans in the Civil War. The medal would be designed by the Secretary of the Treasury, emphasizing suitable emblems and inscriptions, and would subsequently be presented to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research. This act represents not only a symbolic gesture of recognition for these individuals but also seeks to educate future generations about their sacrifices and contributions to American history.

Summary

House Bill 865, titled the 'United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act,' seeks to posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to the African Americans who served with Union forces during the Civil War. The bill highlights the contributions and sacrifices made by approximately 200,000 African-American men in the Union Army and 19,000 in the Union Navy, recognizing their bravery amidst dangerous circumstances and racial discrimination. It aims to formally acknowledge their role in the preservation of the Union and the advancement of civil rights for African Americans, which had been historically overlooked in national narratives.

Contention

While the bill has the support of various advocates aiming for recognition of marginalized historical narratives, it could encounter resistance based on differing historical interpretations or priorities in commemorating military history. Discussions might arise regarding whether more emphasis should be placed on contemporary issues facing veterans or planning dedicated memorials rather than posthumous awards. Additionally, the financial implications of minting and presenting the gold medal may spark dialogue regarding funding priorities in the government.