A resolution celebrating Black History Month.

119th Congress Introduced by Angela Alsobrooks and 36 co-sponsors

S. Res. 615 formally honors Black History Month, acknowledges African American contributions, and reaffirms commitment to learning from history to advance equality and justice.

Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.

Summary of S. Res. 615 (119th Congress) – Celebrating Black History Month

Purpose and intent

S. Res. 615 is a Senate resolution celebrating Black History Month. It acknowledges the historical and ongoing contributions of African Americans to the United States and reaffirms commitment to the ideals of equality and justice upon which the nation was founded.

The resolution emphasizes reflection on the complex history of the United States, recognition of progress, and the need to continue learning from the past to move forward together as a united nation.

Key provisions and changes

Declares that all people in the United States benefit from the rich history provided by Black culture and acknowledges the importance of Black History Month as a period for reflection on that history.

Recognizes the significance of Black History Month as a time to commemorate African American contributions across economic, educational, political, artistic, athletic, literary, scientific, and technological fields.

Encourages celebration of Black History Month as an opportunity for all Americans to learn from past experiences and to understand the factors that have shaped the country.

Affirms that, despite historical injustices, progress has been and can continue to be made, highlighting the resilience and achievements of African Americans.

Emphasizes the need for unity and a continued commitment to liberty and justice for all, consistent with the nation’s founding principles.

Provides a historical context, noting origins of Black History Month in Negro History Week and recognizing Dr. Carter G. Woodson as a key figure in its creation.

Who or what would be affected

The resolution is a symbolic, non-binding statement expressing the Senate’s views and recognizing the importance of Black History Month.

It does not create new laws, funding, or regulatory requirements. Rather, it serves to acknowledge, educate, and encourage national reflection and celebration.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced and submitted to the Senate on February 25, 2026.

The Senate considered the measure by Unanimous Consent and agreed to it without amendment, with a preamble.

No committees, hearings, or fiscal impacts are described in the text; as a resolution, it is largely ceremonial in nature.

Notable sponsors

A broad group of Senators signed on as co-sponsors, including (among others): Catherine Cortez Masto, Lisa Blunt Rochester, Amy Klobuchar, Angus King, Jacky Rosen, Raphael Warnock, Rick Scott, Thom Tillis, Tim Scott, and many others.

Bottom-line takeaway

S. Res. 615 formally acknowledges the importance of Black History Month, honors the enduring contributions of African Americans to the United States, and reaffirms a commitment to learning from history to advance a more inclusive and just society. It is a ceremonial resolution with no direct fiscal or regulatory impact.