Wisconsin Senate Bill SJR81

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/30/23
• Refer: 10/30/23
• Engrossed: 11/7/23
• Passed: 11/13/23

Caption

Commemorating November 7, 2023, as Victims of Communism Memorial Day.

Impact

By designating a specific day to remember victims of communism, SJR81 aims to raise awareness about the atrocities committed under communist rule and to reaffirm commitment to democratic principles such as freedom of speech and religion. This recognition is not just a historical gesture; it is also a declaration of the importance of combating ideologies that have led to significant loss of life and freedom throughout history. The resolution could influence educational programs and discussions around governance, history, and civil rights in Wisconsin.

Summary

SJR81 is a resolution that commemorates November 7, 2023, as Victims of Communism Memorial Day in Wisconsin. The bill is rooted in a historical context that includes significant events such as the publication of The Communist Manifesto, the Bolshevik Revolution, and the subsequent establishment of oppressive regimes that led to mass violence and humanitarian crises. The resolution serves to honor the memory of those who suffered under communist regimes worldwide, recognizing that approximately 100 million people have been killed due to communism's failings.

Contention

While SJR81 primarily serves as a commemoration, it may provoke discussions on how communism is represented in educational curriculums. The resolution aligns with certain political ideologies and may face opposition from those who view the emphasis on anti-communism as potentially dismissive of legitimate critiques aimed at capitalist frameworks. The commemoration may also spark debate on the relevance of such designations in a contemporary context where discussions around socialism and communism are increasingly prevalent in societal discourse.