The bill aims to draw attention to the historical significance of Blackdom, which was formerly a thriving community that has since become a ghost town. By emphasizing its cultural importance, SM71 highlights the necessity of studying and preserving sites significant to the African American experience in New Mexico. This could foster new initiatives for historical education, heritage tourism, and community engagement, while also potentially influencing local policies regarding historic site development and preservation.
Summary
SM71 is a memorial recognizing the cultural significance of the Blackdom Homesteader Colony in Chaves County, New Mexico. It acknowledges the historical impact of the colony founded by African American settlers in 1901 and highlights the need to preserve the memories and histories associated with this community. The bill effectively requests that the Cultural Affairs Department convenes a task force to study access to the historical townsite, ensuring that the legacy of Blackdom is acknowledged and that efforts are made to provide access before any further deterioration of the site occurs.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SM71 appears to be positive, as it promotes recognition of an underrepresented aspect of American history. Lawmakers and community advocates have expressed enthusiasm for efforts that preserve local history and commemorates the contributions of African Americans in the region. The call for the creation of a task force signifies a supportive gesture toward collaborative efforts to ensure that the memories and contributions of Blackdom's settlers and their descendants are honored and maintained.
Contention
While general sentiment around SM71 is positive, there may be underlying challenges concerning funding for the task force and ensuring the recommendations are implemented effectively. There could be local debates regarding the accessibility of the site, its significance versus other historical locations, and the best methods to promote it while respecting the privacy of current landowners. Therefore, while the bill is a step towards honoring Blackdom's cultural heritage, stakeholders will need to address these potential areas of contention to secure its future.