Missouri House Bill HCR55

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Urges the Speaker of the House of Representatives to select Langston Hughes for the hall of famous Missourians

Impact

If adopted, HCR55 would result in the inclusion of Langston Hughes in the Hall of Famous Missourians, a symbolic gesture that underscores the value of representation. This initiative highlights the role of cultural recognition in fostering a more inclusive state identity. Advocates believe that honoring figures like Hughes will inspire future generations to appreciate and learn from Missouri's rich and diverse past, thus helping to bridge gaps in representation and cultural understanding.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 55 (HCR55) urges the Speaker of the House of Representatives to select Langston Hughes for the Hall of Famous Missourians. This resolution serves not only as an act of recognition for Hughes’s literary contributions and influence on African American culture but also aims to emphasize the importance of celebrating diverse cultural figures in Missouri's history. The resolution aligns with ongoing efforts to acknowledge and elevate the narratives of historically significant individuals who have shaped the cultural heritage of the state.

Contention

Despite the positive viewpoints surrounding HCR55, there may be potential points of contention regarding the criteria used for selecting individuals for the Hall of Famous Missourians. Some may argue that the criteria could favor certain narratives while overlooking others, thus sparking discussions about whose contributions are deemed worthy of recognition. Furthermore, while many celebrate Hughes’s legacy, others may express concerns regarding the need for a broader representation of diverse figures in similar honorary contexts.