Relative to the graves of African Americans alive during the period of American enslavement.
Impact
The legislation is expected to introduce significant changes to the management and protection of African American graves under New Hampshire law, specifically under RSA 289. It directs cemetery authorities to work closely with descendant communities in recognizing and preserving graves, thereby formalizing the engagement process. This legal recognition is crucial in ensuring that descendant communities have a voice in decisions affecting these sites, enhancing their cultural and historical relevance.
Summary
Senate Bill 258 establishes legal protections and procedures for the grave sites of African Americans who were alive during the time of American enslavement. The bill recognizes the historical significance of these sites and mandates that the state take action to preserve graves, markers, and related archaeological materials. By defining key terms such as 'African American grave' and 'descendant community', the bill lays the foundation for a framework that prioritizes the restoration and protection of these historical sites, as well as consultation with descendants regarding any decisions made about the graves.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its goals of historical preservation and recognition, there may be contention surrounding the practical implementation of its provisions, particularly regarding the consultation process with descendant communities. Stakeholders may raise concerns about the adequacy of outreach and representation in these discussions, as well as the potential bureaucratic challenges in responding to the bill's requirements, particularly in terms of accessing sites and materials that could have been disturbed or removed previously.
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.