Bill
SR 70
Non-binding resolution recognizing Black History Month and the 22nd Kentucky Black History Celebration, honoring Dr. Roger Cleveland and urging ongoing learning and unity for equal
A. Purpose and intent
- SR 70 is a resolution honoring the 22nd Black History Celebration in Kentucky and affirming the principle that Black history is American history.
- It recognizes the ongoing relevance of Black history to the broader American narrative and encourages continued reflection and education about the contributions and experiences of African Americans.
B. Key provisions and changes
- Acknowledgments and framing:
- Reaffirms that Black history is integral to U.S. history and the American identity.
- References the historical context of African Americans, including enslaved persons, and acknowledges ongoing inequities and injustices that persisted as of 2026.
- Highlights the long-standing struggle for equal rights and the achievements of African Americans across various sectors (business, government, military, education).
- Annual celebration and keynote:
- Announces and commemorates the 22nd annual Black History Celebration in Kentucky.
- Names Dr. Roger Cleveland as the keynote speaker for the event, detailing his background in equity, diversity, and education, along with his professional roles and recognitions.
- Lists other notable participants and leaders who are noted to be involved in the event (e.g., Senate and House leaders, the Lt. Governor, the Chief Justice, and other policymakers).
- Historical context and education:
- Includes historical notes about Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the origin of Negro History Week (precursor to Black History Month), and Woodson’s ties to Kentucky.
- Emphasizes the historical arc from Slave-era injustices to modern efforts to promote equity and inclusion.
- Non-binding ceremonial language:
- The resolution expresses ideals about learning from history, confronting past injustices, and pursuing a society with equality and justice.
- Encourages ongoing celebration of Black history throughout the year, not only in February, as a means of informing current and future generations.
- Section 1: Formal statements (bulleted purposes)
- Recognizes the contributions of Black culture and history.
- Encourages reflection on history while remaining hopeful about the future.
- Commends the ongoing contributions of African Americans to Kentucky and the nation.
- Urges education and understanding of past experiences to inform present and future challenges.
- Calls for unity and commitment to liberty and justice for all.
- Section 2: Clerical directive
- Directs the Clerk of the Senate to transmit a copy of the resolution to Senator Gerald A. Neal (the sponsor/representative for coordination and acknowledgment).
C. Who or what would be affected
- Students, educators, policymakers, and the general public in Kentucky who participate in or observe Black History Month and related commemorations.
- The bill primarily affects ceremonial recognition and symbolic acknowledgment rather than creating new laws or spending programs.
- The resolution highlights Dr. Roger Cleveland as a prominent figure associated with the event and underscores the involvement of other state leaders as speakers or participants.
D. Procedural and timeline aspects
- Scheduling and action:
- Introduced in the Senate on January 30, 2026.
- Referred to the Senate Committee on Committees (S) on January 30, 2026.
- Adopted by the Senate by voice vote on February 3, 2026.
- Sponsorship:
- Primary sponsor: (not explicitly named in the excerpt beyond the Clerk’s transmission to Senator Gerald A. Neal).
- Co-sponsors include Senator Gerald A. Neal, Senator Keturah Herron, and Senator Reggie Thomas.
- Effect:
- The resolution becomes a formal expression of the Senate’s respect and recognition of Black History Month and the 22nd Black History Celebration.
- It does not establish new statutory requirements, funding, or regulatory changes; rather, it serves as an official commendation and educational reaffirmation.
E. Overall takeaway
- SR 70 is a commemorative, non-binding resolution recognizing Black History Month and the 22nd Kentucky Black History Celebration, honoring Dr. Roger Cleveland as keynote, and reaffirming the view that Black history is an essential part of American history. It calls for continued learning, reflection, and unity in pursuit of equality and justice.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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