Virginia House Bill HJR17

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/22
• Refer: 1/10/22

Caption

Agrippa Hull Day; designating as May 21, 2022, and in each succeeding year thereafter.

Impact

The establishment of Agrippa Hull Day serves multiple purposes: it commemorates the contributions of African Americans in the revolutionary struggle for independence and provides a platform for education about Hull's significant yet often overlooked role in U.S. history. By officially designating a day in his honor, the state acknowledges the importance of inclusivity in historical narratives and pays tribute to the sacrifices made by individuals like Hull, who fought for freedom and justice.

Summary

HJR17 designates May 21 as Agrippa Hull Day in Virginia, honoring the legacy of Agrippa Hull, a free Black man who voluntarily enlisted in the Continental Army and served with distinction during the American Revolutionary War. Hull was present at significant events in U.S. history, such as the Battle of Saratoga and the siege of Charleston, where he contributed to critical victories. The resolution recognizes Hull's commitment to the fight for independence, his role in supporting leadership that influenced views on abolition, and his later life as a respected landowner and citizen in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.

Contention

While the bill itself is largely uncontroversial and aims to honor a historical figure, it may spark conversations about the need to recognize more diverse contributions to American history. Debates could arise regarding how historical figures are honored in public spaces, the representation of African American contributions in educational curricula, and the broader implications of celebrating such figures in the context of ongoing discussions about race and history in the United States.