New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB84

Introduced
1/7/21  
Refer
1/7/21  
Report Pass
11/3/21  
Report DNP
11/3/21  
Engrossed
1/18/22  
Refer
1/18/22  
Report Pass
3/9/22  
Enrolled
6/14/22  
Chaptered
6/28/22  

Caption

Declaring May 21, 2022 as Ona Judge Staines Day.

Impact

The bill's passage signifies recognition and commemoration of historical figures who played vital roles in the fight for civil rights. By establishing a dedicated day in her honor, the legislation seeks to promote awareness about Ona Judge Staines' life and her journey to self-emancipation. The call for appropriate ceremonies and educational activities in schools underscores the bill's intent to educate citizens on the importance of freedom and individual autonomy, particularly in relation to the historical context of slavery in the United States.

Summary

House Bill 84 is an act that designates May 21, 2022, as Ona Judge Staines Day in New Hampshire. This bill commemorates an important historical event which occurred in 1796 when Ona Judge Staines, an enslaved woman, escaped from the household of George and Martha Washington. Her act of seizing her freedom from the President's house in Philadelphia marks a significant moment in the narrative of American history and the fight against slavery. The legislation aims to honor her legacy and encourage statewide observances that reflect on her contributions to the pursuit of freedom.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding House Bill 84 is largely positive, reflecting a collective appreciation for recognizing historical figures who have fought for justice and equality. Many legislators and supporters view the bill as an opportunity for New Hampshire to acknowledge its past and promote a more inclusive narrative of American history. This sentiment is echoed in the encouragement for educational institutions to engage with Staines' story, fostering a deeper understanding of the struggles for freedom that persist today.

Contention

While the bill is largely well-received, as with most commemorative legislation, there may be underlying discussions concerning the broader implications of how history is commemorated and taught. Some opponents may argue that such observances could lead to contested interpretations of history, depending on the varying perspectives of different communities. However, the primary focus of HB84 remains celebratory, aiming to unify residents around the shared recognition of a figure who symbolizes resistance against oppression.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB1050

Declaring November 11 as Remembrance Day.

NH SB218

Declaring October 13 as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day.

NH SB198

Declaring the third week in September to be New Hampshire service dog week.

NH SB219

Declaring the month of September as kinship care awareness month.

NH HB1443

Proclaiming the first Monday of March as COVID-19 Victims and Survivors Memorial Day.

NH HB140

Proclaiming January 24 as "Granny D" day.

NH HB96

Recognizing May 3rd as Old Man of the Mountain Day.

NH SB103

Including the raid on Fort William and Mary in Portsmouth in the planning of the American revolution sestercentennial commission.

NH HB490

Relative to the definitions of "game camera" and "hunting day," relative to the use of game cameras, relative to the use of temporary tree stands or observation blinds, and relative to the definition of "firearm."

NH HB1173

Proclaiming August 9 as Indigenous People's Day.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.