Rhode Island Senate Bill S2242

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/24/24

Caption

Changes the name of the holiday on the second Monday of August from Victory Day to Peace and Remembrance Day.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will amend existing state laws regarding holidays, explicitly renaming an official state holiday. The transformation of 'Victory Day' into 'Peace and Remembrance Day' marks a significant shift in how Rhode Island commemorates historical events, moving the focus away from military triumphs to the broader implications of conflict on civilian populations. This change aligns with calls for a more inclusive remembrance of the sacrifices made during war, encompassing not only military personnel but also the civilians affected by the fallout of warfare.

Summary

Bill S2242 proposes to change the name of the holiday observed on the second Monday of August in Rhode Island from 'Victory Day' to 'Peace and Remembrance Day.' The bill aims to celebrate peace and recognize the impacts of war on civilians, promoting the ideal that military victories often come at great human cost. Introduced in January 2024, the bill seeks to address historical narratives surrounding World War II, specifically focusing on the atomic bombings and the internment of Japanese Americans during the conflict.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions over its significance and the appropriateness of renaming the holiday. Proponents argue that this change is necessary to reflect a more nuanced understanding of history, acknowledging the civilian suffering incurred during wars. Critics may raise concerns about the potential loss of valorization of military sacrifices that 'Victory Day' represents, creating a point of contention regarding how history is remembered and commemorated. The discussion highlights a broader societal debate about honor, remembrance, and the narratives that shape public consciousness around military history.