Us Congress House Bill HB1349

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/22/23

Caption

African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center Act

Impact

The bill outlines the purposes of the museum, including serving as a permanent living memorial, facilitating the exploration of African cultural traditions, and providing a space for exhibitions and the study of artifacts. Its establishment would promote public understanding of slavery and its impact on American society, thus playing a vital role in the commemoration of African American history. Additionally, it mandates collaboration with various educational and cultural institutions to enhance the museum's outreach and effectiveness.

Summary

House Bill 1349, titled the 'African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center Act', aims to establish a national memorial museum and educational center at the site of the African Burial Ground in New York City. This location is historically significant as it serves as the burial site for thousands of enslaved Africans and early African Americans from the colonial period. The proposed museum will not only honor those interred there but also provide educational resources about the institution of slavery and the African cultural traditions brought to America.

Contention

While the bill has gained support for its focus on honoring an often-overlooked part of American history, it may face challenges regarding funding and site acquisition. Concerns about the location's accessibility and integration within the broader landscape of memorials and historical sites in Lower Manhattan could also arise. Nevertheless, the emphasis on public education and community involvement is expected to promote a supportive environment for the bill's objectives.