Virginia Senate Bill SJR34

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22
• Report Pass: 1/21/22
• Engrossed: 1/27/22
• Refer: 2/22/22
• Report Pass: 3/3/22
• Enrolled: 3/8/22
• Passed: 3/8/22

Caption

African Diaspora Heritage Month; designating as September 2022 and each succeeding year thereafter.

Impact

By declaring September as African Diaspora Heritage Month, SJR34 aims to raise awareness of the historical and contemporary contributions of African immigrants in Virginia. The resolution not only seeks to honor their heritage but also encourages the celebration of their contributions towards economic growth, job creation, and cultural diversity within the Commonwealth. This official recognition can promote community engagement and events that acknowledge the rich cultural fabric brought by the African Diaspora.

Summary

SJR34 is a resolution passed by the General Assembly of Virginia that designates September as African Diaspora Heritage Month. This legislation acknowledges the contributions of the African Diaspora community to the state, highlighting their growth in population and significance to the economy. The resolution marks a formal recognition of over 115,000 members of the African Diaspora living in Virginia, celebrating their role in various sectors including business, education, and healthcare.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR34 is predominantly positive, reflecting a bipartisan acknowledgment of the value the African Diaspora community adds to Virginia. Both advocates for the resolution and local African communities expressed enthusiasm for the formal recognition. There's a shared understanding that acknowledging this population contributes to a more inclusive narrative of the state’s history and its ongoing commitment to diversity.

Contention

While SJR34 was largely received with support, some discussions might arise around the allocation of resources for heritage celebrations and ensuring that such recognitions translate into tangible support for the community. The resolution itself did not face significant opposition, given its nature and the widespread appreciation of multicultural contributions in society.