Mississippi House Bill HB825

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

State holiday; exclusively recognize Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday on the third Monday of January.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will remove Robert E. Lee's birthday and Confederate Memorial Day from the list of legal state holidays. This change not only alters the state's public holiday calendar, but it also symbolizes a shift in the cultural narrative that Mississippi embraces with respect to its history. By officially recognizing Dr. King's contributions, the law seeks to foster a more inclusive environment that respects the strides made towards equality.

Summary

House Bill 825 proposes significant amendments to the Mississippi Code, specifically Section 3-3-7, by exclusively recognizing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday as a legal holiday on the third Monday of January. This legislative move reflects the Mississippi Legislature's intent to prioritize the recognition of influential figures in civil rights history while moving away from honoring figures associated with the Confederacy. The bill aims to align state holidays with values that represent the progress made by all citizens in Mississippi.

Contention

The bill may face contention as it directly challenges historical traditions in Mississippi. Supporters of HB825 argue that it is a progressive step towards acknowledging and celebrating diversity and the significant impact of civil rights leaders. Opponents, however, may see this as an affront to historical figures they believe are integral to Mississippi's heritage. The legislative discussions around this bill are likely to be heated as differing viewpoints on historical recognition and legacy are deeply ingrained in the region's cultural identity.