Directing the State Preservation Board to initiate steps to provide for the replacement of the Children of the Confederacy plaque with a plaque to honor victims of the state's convict leasing system.
The bill intends to bring greater awareness of Texas's historical context, particularly focusing on how the convict leasing system exploited African Americans as laborers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By establishing a plaque that honors these victims, the resolution aims to educate the public and ensure that this dark chapter of Texas history is acknowledged as part of the state's identity. This act could pave the way for further discussions and legislative actions related to historical injustices and the acknowledgment of systemic racism.
HCR17 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the Texas Legislature that seeks to address a significant historical injustice by directing the State Preservation Board to replace the existing Children of the Confederacy plaque. The current plaque does not reflect the broader, often painful narrative surrounding Texas's history, particularly regarding the convict leasing system that flourished after the Civil War. The resolution emphasizes the importance of commemorating the victims of this inhumane system, which echoes the legacy of slavery in Texas.
While the bill aims to rectify historical narratives, it may face contention from groups who view the current plaques as part of Texas's heritage. However, proponents argue that replacing the plaque with one that accurately reflects the suffering of victims of the convict leasing system is vital for truth and reconciliation. The dialogue initiated by HCR17 can serve to challenge the legacy of racism and injustice, inviting broader societal reflection on the impact of such systems—both historically and in contemporary discussions about race and equity in Texas.