Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HR137

Introduced
2/14/25  
Refer
2/14/25  
Refer
2/14/25  

Caption

Resolution designating the House Press Gallery (Rooms H-315, H-316, H-317, H-318, and H-319 in the United States Capitol) as the 'Frederick Douglass Press Gallery’

Impact

This designation represents a formal acknowledgment of Douglass's legacy and contributions, reinforcing the idea of representation and recognition within the halls of power. It serves not only as a tribute but also as a reminder of the importance of diversifying narratives in governmental spaces. By memorializing Douglass in this way, the resolution aims to inspire future generations and educate visitors about the critical historical moments associated with Douglass’s life and advocacy.

Summary

House Resolution 137 aims to honor Frederick Douglass by designating the House Press Gallery in the United States Capitol as the 'Frederick Douglass Press Gallery.' The resolution acknowledges Douglass's significant contributions to journalism, civil rights, and his efforts in championing equality during a pivotal time in American history. By recognizing the House Press Gallery with his name, the resolution intends to celebrate Douglass's legacy as a powerful voice against slavery and a proponent of equal rights for all people, particularly those of African descent.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HR137 appears to be positive, reflecting a collective appreciation for Douglass's impact on American history and civil rights. Legislators from both parties have sponsored the resolution, indicating broad support for honoring a figure who played a crucial role in advocating for justice and equality. The measure's introduction and the discussion around it highlight an understanding of the importance of recognizing historical figures who fought against oppression.

Contention

While the resolution is largely welcomed without major points of contention, it resides within a larger context of ongoing discussions about how history is represented and taught. Some critics may argue that such commemorations can mask contemporary issues regarding race and equality that still need addressing in America today. Nonetheless, the resolution is regarded more as a celebration rather than a divisive piece of legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HR850

Designating the House Press Gallery as the "Frederick Douglass Press Gallery".

US HB7378

Frederick Douglass Congressional Gold Medal Act

US HR184

Original Black History Month Resolution of 2023

US HR357

Responding to growing threats to freedom of the press and expression around the world, reaffirming the centrality of a free and independent press to the health of democracy, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance on World Press Freedom Day.

US HR189

Requiring foreign state media outlets with credentialed members in the House news media galleries to comply with the Foreign Agents Registration Act by prohibiting the admission into such galleries of reporters and correspondents who are representatives of such outlets who are not in compliance with the requirements of such Act, and for other purposes.

US HR458

Requiring foreign state media outlets with credentialed members in the House news media galleries to comply with the Foreign Agents Registration Act by prohibiting the admission into such galleries of reporters and correspondents who are representatives of such outlets who are not in compliance with the requirements of such Act, and for other purposes.

US HR414

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.

US HR1192

Recognizing widening threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in countering the growing threats of authoritarianism, misinformation, and disinformation, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2024.

US SR688

A resolution recognizing widening threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in combating the growing threats of authoritarianism, misinformation, and disinformation, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2024.

US HB5856

Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2023

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.