Summary of HR 1359: Black History Matters Act

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: HR 1359
• Title: Black History Matters Act
• Status: Introduced in House
• Introduced Date: February 13, 2025
• Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The Black History Matters Act aims to promote the recognition and education of Black history in the United States. The bill seeks to ensure that the contributions, struggles, and achievements of Black Americans are adequately represented in educational curricula and public discourse. This initiative is part of a broader effort to foster understanding and appreciation of the diverse history of the United States.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, the following provisions are typically associated with similar legislative efforts:

• Curriculum Development: The bill may mandate the inclusion of comprehensive Black history education in K-12 schools and higher education institutions.
• Funding for Educational Programs: It may allocate federal funding to support educational programs, resources, and training for educators on Black history.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: The bill could establish initiatives to promote public awareness of Black history through events, exhibitions, and partnerships with cultural institutions.
• Research and Documentation: It may encourage research on Black history and the establishment of archives to preserve historical documents and artifacts.

Affected Parties

The Black History Matters Act would primarily affect:

• Students and Educators: K-12 students and teachers would benefit from enhanced educational resources and training.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities would be required to adapt their curricula to include Black history.
• Cultural Institutions: Museums, libraries, and community organizations may receive funding and support to promote Black history initiatives.

Legislative Process

• Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House on February 13, 2025.
• Committee Referral: It has been referred to the House Committee on House Administration for further consideration.

Sponsors and Cosponsors

The bill is sponsored by Bonnie Watson Coleman and has a significant number of cosponsors, including:

• Gwen Moore
• LaMonica McIver
• Wesley Bell
• Adriano Espaillat
• Nikema Williams
• Jahana Hayes
• Al Green
• Valerie P. Foushee
• Delia C. Ramirez
• Henry C. "Hank" Johnson
• Troy A. Carter
• Lois Frankel
• Eleanor Holmes Norton
• Timothy M. Kennedy
• Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick
• Stacey E. Plaskett
• Yvette D. Clarke
• Danny K. Davis
• Robert Menendez
• Ayanna Pressley
• Nydia M. Velázquez
• Frederica S. Wilson
• Bennie G. Thompson
• Janice D. Schakowsky
• Dwight Evans
• Shri Thanedar
• Robin L. Kelly
• James P. McGovern
• Jerrold Nadler
• Summer L. Lee
• Steve Cohen
• Rashida Tlaib
• André Carson
• Shontel M. Brown
• Jonathan L. Jackson
• Maxine Waters

Conclusion

The Black History Matters Act represents a significant legislative effort to enhance the understanding and appreciation of Black history in the United States. By promoting educational initiatives and public awareness, the bill aims to foster a more inclusive narrative of American history. As it progresses through the legislative process, its impact on education and cultural institutions will be closely monitored.