Minnesota Senate Bill SF3289

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/19/23
• Refer: 4/19/23
• Refer: 3/18/24

Caption

Establishing a 250th Anniversary Commemoration Commission and appropriating money

Impact

The bill aims to create a framework for recognizing the historical significance of the United States' founding while promoting diversity by encouraging the inclusion of underrepresented voices in these commemorations, such as women, American Indians, and people of color. The commission will serve as a vital point of contact for organizations and local governments wishing to engage in events associated with this significant milestone, thus fostering a unified state-wide effort to celebrate this anniversary.

Summary

SF3289 establishes the 250th Anniversary Commemoration Commission within the Minnesota Humanities Center, tasked with planning and promoting activities related to the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The commission's primary goal is to organize commemorative and educational events that celebrate America's founding as marked by the Declaration of Independence in 1776, including outreach to various communities across Minnesota to ensure broad participation in the celebrations.

Contention

While the intentions behind the bill center on inclusiveness and education, some may contend that the composition of the commission and the allocation of funds could lead to disparities in representation or focus in the types of events that are prioritized. This could spark debate among different community groups regarding whose narratives and histories are highlighted during these commemorations. Furthermore, discussions may arise around the appropriations allocated for the commission, calling into question budget prioritization in the context of other pressing state needs.