New York Assembly Bill A08819

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/25
• Refer: 6/9/25

Caption

Directs the commissioner of the office of general services to erect a monument to be known as the "New York state African slavery and freedom memorial" in the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza to memorialize victims of the African Holocaust, the Holocaust of Enslavement, the Black Holocaust, or the enslavement of Black people and to celebrate the universal values of freedom, democracy and human rights for all people.

Impact

The bill has the potential to significantly impact state laws by promoting a public acknowledgment of the historical injustices faced by Black people in New York. It establishes a formal recognition of the African Holocaust and aims to foster a collective memory through the proposed monument. By educating citizens about the painful aspects of history, it promotes discussions around race, equality, and human rights, aligning with broader goals of social justice and reconciliation within the state. The presence of this monument could enhance cultural heritage and promote awareness of civil rights issues.

Summary

A08819 is a legislative bill that seeks to direct the commissioner of the Office of General Services to establish a monument in New York's Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza. This monument, referred to as the 'New York State African Slavery and Freedom Memorial', aims to honor the victims of African slavery and educate the public on its historical significance. The bill underscores values such as freedom, democracy, and human rights for all people, framing the memorial as not just a tribute, but also a tool for public awareness and education regarding the impacts of slavery and racism in New York State.

Contention

While the bill appears to be predominantly supportive of memorializing the experiences of enslaved individuals, potential points of contention could arise regarding the design and funding of the monument. Different stakeholders might have varying views on how the monument should be constructed, what it should represent, and how public funds should be allocated for its establishment. Additionally, discussions may surface about the broader implications of educating the public on such sensitive historical topics and the responsibilities of government in addressing historical wrongs.