Bill
HR 49
Declares March 21, 2025 as Abolitionist Day in Michigan, honoring Laura Smith Haviland and abolitionists; ceremonial recognition that raises awareness and encourages education.
Status: Adopted (House) — ceremonial, non‑binding resolution
Introduced: Filed 2025; multiple readings in 2025; adopted in the Michigan House (Ayes 77, Noes 0 on August 21, 2025; reported enrolled August 27, 2025)
Primary sponsors: Representatives Scott, Foreman, Hoskins, Brixie, Price, Pohutsky, Myers‑Phillips, O’Neal, Neeley, Grant, Edwards and numerous co‑sponsors (full sponsor list appears in the enrolled resolution)
Purpose and intent
- The resolution proclaims March 21, 2025, as “Abolitionist Day” in the state of Michigan.
- Its stated intent is to recognize the historical role of the abolitionist movement in ending slavery and to honor Michigan‑area abolitionists—specifically highlighting Laura Smith Haviland—for their contributions to freedom, civil rights, and justice.
Key provisions
- A formal declaration by the Michigan House of Representatives that March 21, 2025, is Abolitionist Day in Michigan.
- The text recounts elements of abolitionist history and cites Laura Smith Haviland’s life and work: her move to Michigan, her activism helping fugitives and obstructing slave catchers, and her 2018 induction into the National Abolition Hall of Fame.
- The resolution contains commemorative language recognizing the abolitionist movement’s role in advancing equality and encouraging public acknowledgment of that history.
Who or what is affected
- This is a symbolic, commemorative House resolution. It does not create legal rights, impose duties, allocate funds, or change statutes.
- Primary practical effects are public and ceremonial: it may prompt observances, educational activities, historical commemorations, or local events by state agencies, schools, historical societies, and community groups.
Procedural and timeline notes
- Introduced and carried through routine House procedures (referrals, placement on calendars, committee actions). Recorded adoption in August 2025 (voice/roll call noted as 77–0).
- As an adopted House resolution, it was reported enrolled; no executive branch action is required for its observance.
Impact and limitations
- Impact: raises public awareness of abolitionist history in Michigan, honors local historical figures, and may encourage commemorative and educational programming.
- Limitation: purely ceremonial; it does not change law, fund programs, or mandate state action.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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