Relative to the graves of African Americans alive during the period of American enslavement.
Impact
The legislation is expected to introduce significant changes to the management and protection of African American graves under New Hampshire law, specifically under RSA 289. It directs cemetery authorities to work closely with descendant communities in recognizing and preserving graves, thereby formalizing the engagement process. This legal recognition is crucial in ensuring that descendant communities have a voice in decisions affecting these sites, enhancing their cultural and historical relevance.
Summary
Senate Bill 258 establishes legal protections and procedures for the grave sites of African Americans who were alive during the time of American enslavement. The bill recognizes the historical significance of these sites and mandates that the state take action to preserve graves, markers, and related archaeological materials. By defining key terms such as 'African American grave' and 'descendant community', the bill lays the foundation for a framework that prioritizes the restoration and protection of these historical sites, as well as consultation with descendants regarding any decisions made about the graves.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its goals of historical preservation and recognition, there may be contention surrounding the practical implementation of its provisions, particularly regarding the consultation process with descendant communities. Stakeholders may raise concerns about the adequacy of outreach and representation in these discussions, as well as the potential bureaucratic challenges in responding to the bill's requirements, particularly in terms of accessing sites and materials that could have been disturbed or removed previously.
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.
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.
A BILL to amend and reenact ยง 10.1-2211.2 of the Code of Virginia, relating to historical African American cemeteries and graves; qualified organization; Fairfax burial grounds.
Requires certain topics in Native American and African American history to be included in the seventh through twelfth grade history curriculum in public schools
Requires certain topics in Native American and African American history to be included in the seventh through twelfth grade history curriculum in public schools