Texas House Bill HB2428

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the burial of convict leasing victims and the establishment of a convict leasing victims memorial museum.

Impact

The bill's passage signifies a recognition of historical injustices and the importance of memorializing victims of systemic abuses. By establishing a museum, it not only serves the purpose of educating future generations about the dark history of convict leasing but also aims to foster a dialogue around issues of race, justice, and reconciliation in Texas. The museum is expected to be managed by a historian and will encourage community engagement through educational programs and public events focusing on the historical significance of this past.

Summary

House Bill 2428 focuses on the burial treatment of victims of convict leasing and calls for the establishment of a memorial museum dedicated to educating the public about the historical context and implications of convict leasing in Texas. Specifically, the bill mandates the development of a comprehensive burial treatment plan for 95 victims whose remains were discovered in 2018 at the site of the former Imperial State Prison Farm in Sugar Land. This initiative aims to honor the memory of these individuals and acknowledge the injustices they suffered under the convict leasing system.

Contention

One potential point of contention surrounding HB 2428 could stem from views about the funding and management of the memorial museum. The bill allows for soliciting donations from public and private sources, which may lead to debates about the appropriateness of privately funded initiatives for such sensitive historical narratives. Additionally, there could be discussions about whether enough is being done to confront the systemic issues related to convict leasing beyond simply memorializing the past, particularly in the context of ongoing disparities in the criminal justice system.