AR 112 is a California Assembly resolution designating June 2026 as Black Music Month. The measure recites an extensive history of Black musical contributions across genres including spirituals, blues, jazz, gospel, rhythm and blues, soul, funk, rock and roll, hip-hop, reggae, disco, and classical music, and it highlights many individual artists and composers whose work shaped American music. It also recognizes the National Museum of African American Music and frames Black music as central to California and U.S. cultural heritage.
The resolution further states that Black students face barriers to music education and that many school music programs do not reflect Black cultural traditions. It calls for greater access to culturally relevant music programs in California schools and encourages celebration of Black History Month and Black Music Month as opportunities to promote music education and preserve Black musical heritage for future generations.
Impact
As a resolution, AR 112 does not amend the California Education Code or create enforceable rights or funding obligations. Its legal effect is primarily symbolic: it formally designates June 2026 as Black Music Month and directs the Assembly Chief Clerk to transmit copies of the resolution. The measure may influence public recognition, school programming, and cultural observances, but it does not itself mandate changes to curriculum, school district practices, or state agency operations.
Sentiment
The available legislative history suggests broad support and little opposition. The resolution was reported from committee with an 8-0 vote to be adopted and ordered to third reading, indicating unanimous committee approval. The text and context reflect a strongly affirmative tone centered on recognition, celebration, and educational opportunity, with no recorded dissent in the provided materials.
Contention
No specific controversy is reflected in the committee record provided, and there are no recorded opposing votes or transcript objections. The only potentially debatable policy theme is the resolution’s call for greater access to culturally relevant music education for Black students, which is framed as a need rather than a mandate. Because the measure is commemorative, any contention would likely be limited to the broader policy implications of how schools should address music curriculum and cultural representation rather than to the resolution’s adoption itself.
A resolution recognizing the contributions of Black people to the musical heritage of the United States and the need for greater access to music education for Black students and designating June 2025 as "Black Music Month".