Us Congress Senate Bill SB273

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act

Impact

If enacted, SB273 will serve as a formal acknowledgment of the valor displayed by the United States Colored Troops (USCT) and African American sailors who fought for the Union. Approximately 200,000 African-American men served in the Union Army, along with 19,000 in the Navy, often in the face of racial discrimination and extreme adversity. The bill not only seeks to honor their sacrifice but also aims to educate future generations about their historical significance in the fight for freedom and equality during the Civil War.

Summary

Senate Bill 273, known as the United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act, aims to posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to the collective group of African Americans who served with Union forces during the Civil War. This recognition seeks to honor their bravery and outstanding service, acknowledging significant contributions that have historically been overlooked. The bill emphasizes the value of remembrance and education about the roles that African Americans played during this pivotal time in American history.

Contention

While the bill appears largely symbolic, it carries with it the weight of historical injustice as it seeks to rectify the long-standing omission of these contributions from the larger narrative of American history. There may be arguments around the timing and intention behind such a recognition, with some views reflecting skepticism about its effectiveness in addressing broader issues of racial inequality today. However, supporters emphasize that acknowledgment is a crucial step towards healing and reconciliation within the historical memory of the nation.