Recognizing the courageous actions of Reverend Nat Turner in his fight to abolish slavery and make the majestic words of the Jeffersonian Declaration of Independence, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness", apply to the enslaved, and for other purposes.
Impact
The resolution serves to honor Turner's contributions towards abolishing slavery and encourages further study and dialogue about the complexities of racial justice in the United States. It reflects a commitment to the ideals outlined in the Declaration of Independence, asserting that all individuals are created equal and entitled to life, liberty, and happiness. By recognizing such historical figures, HR660 aims to foster a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by those who fought against systemic injustices.
Summary
HR660 is a resolution recognizing the courageous actions of Reverend Nat Turner in his fight against slavery, emphasizing his significance in American history. Turner, born into slavery in Virginia and educated to read and write, led one of the most notable rebellions, known as the Southampton Insurrection, in 1831. This act of resistance exemplified the profound desire for freedom among enslaved individuals and sparked national debate regarding the injustices of slavery.
Contention
While HR660 is positioned to honor a crucial chapter in the fight for civil rights, the acknowledgment of figures like Nat Turner can be contentious. Some may argue that the methods employed by Turner during the rebellion were violent, and thus complicate his legacy as a freedom fighter. This resolution highlights ongoing discussions about how historical narratives shape contemporary views on justice and resistance, particularly in relation to the context of slavery and the systemic inequalities that emerged from it.
Recognizing the 25th Army Corps of the Union Army and thanking them for their role in capturing Galveston, Texas, on June 5th, 1865, and liberating thousands of enslaved people.
Recognizing that the United States has a moral and legal obligation to provide reparations for the enslavement of Africans and its lasting harm on the lives of millions of Black people in the United States.
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Thomas Garrett was and should be recognized as a national abolitionist leader and activist in the struggle against slavery in the United States.
Recognizing that the United States has a moral and legal obligation to provide reparations for the crime of enslavement of Africans and its lasting harm on the lives of millions of Black people in the United States.
Condemning the atrocities that occurred in 1811, in Louisiana, in which enslaved people revolted for freedom and were brutalized, terrorized, and killed in response, and reaffirming the commitment of the House of Representatives in combating hatred, injustice, and White supremacy.
Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act This bill establishes the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans. The commission must (1) compile documentary evidence of slavery in the United States; (2) study the role of the federal and state governments in supporting the institution of slavery; (3) analyze discriminatory laws and policies against freed African slaves and their descendants; and (4) recommend ways the United States may recognize and remedy the effects of slavery and discrimination on African Americans, including through a formal apology and compensation (i.e., reparations). The commission consists of individuals from civil society and reparations organizations and individuals appointed by the President and congressional leadership; Members of Congress and governmental employees may not serve on the commission. The commission may hold hearings, subpoena witnesses and records, and contract with other entities to conduct its work. The commission must submit its final report within 18 months of its first meeting.