Us Congress House Bill HR1513

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/25/24
• Refer: 9/25/24

Caption

Affirming the term "woke" and its historical connection to Black history, Black liberation movements, and social justice.

Impact

The resolution carries a symbolic weight rather than legislative power, aiming to reshape public discourse around the term 'woke'. By asserting its historical roots and condemning its mischaracterization by media and political entities, HR1513 hopes to encourage a more accurate recognition and application of the term within educational settings and public conversation. This affirmation can influence discussions on race, history, and social justice in educational environments, reinforcing the importance of Black narratives in curricula.

Summary

House Resolution 1513 affirms and emphasizes the term 'woke' and its significant historical connections to Black history, Black liberation movements, and social justice. The resolution seeks to address misconceptions surrounding the term 'woke' and highlights its original purpose as a call to awareness and action against social injustices, drawing from historical references including those made by key figures in Black history like Marcus Garvey and the sentiments expressed by the Negro Mine Workers in the 1940s. It aims to protect the integrity of the term from misappropriation and misuse in contemporary dialogues.

Contention

Discussion around HR1513 is likely to evoke strong reactions across the political spectrum, as the term 'woke' is often polarized in contemporary debates. Supporters of the resolution may see it as a necessary step towards reclaiming a vital part of Black history and advocating for inclusivity in education. However, critics may view it as unnecessary or politically motivated, seeing a distinction between cultural acknowledgment and political activism. The resolution also implicitly critiques legislation aimed at restricting the teaching of diverse histories, positioning itself against such movements that seek to revise educational content concerning race and history.