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SR 8665

Recognizing February as Black History Month.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Emily Alvarado and 25 co-sponsors

Washington state legislature formally recognizes February as Black History Month through an adopted symbolic resolution.

Adopted.
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Bill Summary · SR 8665

Legislative bill overview

SR 8665 is a symbolic resolution recognizing February as Black History Month in Washington state. The measure was introduced by five state legislators and adopted on February 16, 2026. This type of resolution does not create new law or allocate funding, but formally acknowledges the historical and cultural significance of Black History Month.

Why is this important

Symbolic resolutions serve an official recognition function, signaling state-level support for commemorating the contributions and history of Black Americans. Such recognition can influence public awareness, educational curricula, and institutional practices, though the resolution itself carries no binding legal requirements. It reflects legislative priorities regarding which historical narratives and communities receive formal acknowledgment at the state level.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive action: Critics may argue that a resolution recognizing an already-established national observance represents minimal legislative effort compared to funding historical education or addressing systemic inequities
  • Scope of recognition: Some may question why only February receives formal recognition, or whether symbolic resolutions should be prioritized over policy-based approaches to address historical disparities
  • Partisan framing: Depending on state political dynamics, symbolic recognition measures can become flashpoints in broader debates about how history is taught and discussed publicly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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