Summary of HRES 151: International Black Aviation Professionals Day

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: HRES 151
• Title: Expressing support for the designation of February 16, 2025, as "International Black Aviation Professionals Day"
• Status: Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Education and Workforce
• Introduced: February 21, 2025
• Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HRES 151 aims to formally recognize February 16, 2025, as "International Black Aviation Professionals Day." The resolution seeks to honor and celebrate the significant contributions of Black aviation professionals throughout history, highlighting their achievements and the barriers they have overcome in the aviation industry.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes several important provisions:

1. Support for Designation:

   • The House of Representatives expresses its support for the establishment of International Black Aviation Professionals Day.

2. Encouragement of Observance:

   • The resolution encourages the public to observe this day by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Black aviation professionals.

3. Presidential Proclamation Request:

   • The resolution requests that the President of the United States issue a proclamation that:
     • Acknowledges the stories and contributions of Black American aviation professionals who have made significant impacts in the field.
     • Promotes enhanced educational curricula in schools, libraries, and other learning environments to inform the public about the contributions of Black aviation pioneers.
     • Supports increased opportunities for Black Americans in various sectors of aviation.

Affected Parties

The resolution primarily affects:
- Black Aviation Professionals: Individuals working in various capacities within the aviation industry who have historically faced barriers.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and libraries that may implement enhanced curricula to educate students about the contributions of Black aviation pioneers.
- General Public: The resolution aims to raise awareness and appreciation for the contributions of Black professionals in aviation.

Legislative Process

• Referred to Committees: Upon introduction, the bill was referred to both the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Education and Workforce for consideration.
• Subcommittee Referral: It was also referred to the Subcommittee on Aviation on the same day.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by:
- Primary Sponsor: Nikema Williams
- Cosponsors:
- LaMonica McIver
- Dina Titus
- Henry C. "Hank" Johnson
- Adam Smith
- Nanette Diaz Barragán
- Sharice Davids
- Eleanor Holmes Norton
- Alma S. Adams
- Stacey E. Plaskett
- Cleo Fields
- Lucy McBath
- Sanford D. Bishop
- Robin L. Kelly
- Nikki Budzinski
- Steve Cohen
- André Carson
- Marilyn Strickland
- Shontel M. Brown
- Bonnie Watson Coleman

Conclusion

HRES 151 serves as a significant step towards recognizing the contributions of Black aviation professionals and promoting educational initiatives that highlight their achievements. By designating a specific day for this purpose, the resolution aims to foster greater awareness and support for diversity within the aviation industry.