Advancing racial justice and the global rights of people of African descent in the next decade.
Impact
If adopted, HR1589 would reinforce U.S. commitments to international agreements aimed at combating racism and discrimination. The bill encourages the U.S. government to implement effective national strategies in collaboration with civil society and international organizations to advance the cause of racial justice. By integrating gender-focused initiatives and fostering a culture of inclusivity, the resolution aims to catalyze significant change in societal attitudes towards people of African descent, both domestically and globally.
Summary
House Resolution 1589 focuses on advancing racial justice and the global rights of people of African descent as the United Nations 'International Decade for People of African Descent' approaches its conclusion. The resolution calls for sustained efforts to address various systemic issues faced by Afro-descendant communities, emphasizing the need for targeted actions at both national and international levels. It underscores the importance of cooperation among governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to facilitate the full and equal participation of people of African descent in society while promoting respect for their diverse heritage and contributions.
Contention
While the bill carries a positive message regarding unity and support for marginalized communities, there may be contention surrounding the effectiveness and implementation of such strategies. Critics could argue that without concrete measures and accountable structures in place, resolutions like HR1589 risk becoming symbolic gestures that do not lead to actual change in policing, education, employment, and housing sectors. Furthermore, the focus on collaboration with civil society raises questions about the extent to which diverse voices and perspectives are genuinely included in the policy-making process.
Recognizing that the United States has a moral and legal obligation to provide reparations for the crime of enslavement of Africans and its lasting harm on the lives of millions of Black people in the United States.
Recognizing February 4, 2024, as "World Cancer Day", and its theme "Close the Care Gap", to raise awareness about and launch efforts to eliminate racial and ethnic inequities and disparities in cancer care both in the United States and globally.
To condemn racism and bigotry towards Haitian people, to celebrate the vast contributions of people of Haitian descent to the United States, to condemn the spread of misinformation, and to call on Americans to affirm our shared humanity.
Recognizing that the United States has a moral and legal obligation to provide reparations for the enslavement of Africans and its lasting harm on the lives of millions of Black people in the United States.
This resolution supports the designation of Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution.It also encourages all people to reflect on the importance of political leadership and vigilance and on the values of justice and civil rights during times of uncertainty and emergency.
Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans ActThis bill establishes the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans.The commission must (1) compile documentary evidence of slavery in the United States; (2) study the role of the federal and state governments in supporting the institution of slavery; (3) analyze discriminatory laws and policies against formerly enslaved Africans and their descendants; and (4) recommend ways the United States may recognize and remedy the effects of slavery and discrimination on African Americans, including through a formal apology and compensation (i.e., reparations).The commission consists of individuals from civil society and reparations organizations and individuals appointed by the President and congressional leadership. The commission may hold hearings, subpoena witnesses and records, and contract with other entities to conduct its work.The commission must submit its final report within one year of its first meeting.
Supporting the goals and principles of Transgender Day of Remembrance by recognizing the epidemic of violence toward transgender people and memorializing the lives lost this year.
Expressing support for the recognition of April as "National Arab American Heritage Month" (NAAHM) and celebrating the heritage and culture of Arab Americans in the United States.
Condemning the slogan "Globalize the Intifada" as a call to violence against Israeli and Jewish people across the world and urging United States national, State, and local leaders to condemn it as such.