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SR 8619

Remembering Bloody Sunday.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Boehnke and 24 co-sponsors

Washington Senate commemorates Bloody Sunday's 60th anniversary to honor civil rights heroes and urge ongoing commitment to voting rights and equal protection.

Adopted.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 8619

Summary of Senate Resolution 8619: Remembering Bloody Sunday

Status: Adopted
Introduced: March 7, 2025
Version: Senate Resolution (SR 8619) – Nonbinding ceremonial resolution
Subject: Commemoration of Bloody Sunday and reinforcement of civil rights heritage

1) Purpose and Intent

  • To commemorate the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday (March 7, 1965) and to recognize the courage of those who fought for voting rights and equal protection under the law.
  • To align the people of Washington state with national reflection on the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing pursuit of equal rights for all Americans.
  • To honor the legacy of key civil rights figures and activists associated with the Selma-to-Montgomery marches and the broader struggle for voting rights.

2) Key Provisions and Provisions’ Effects

  • Recitals (WHEREAS clauses) recount historical context:
    • The disenfranchisement of Black voters in the early 20th century (e.g., Alabama’s 1901 constitution).
    • The activism of Amelia Boynton Robinson, James Orange, Jimmie Lee Jackson, and John Lewis.
    • The violent response by some law enforcement during the Bloody Sunday march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, including beatings and tear gas.
    • The national awakening to civil rights through media coverage and political leadership, leading toward the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
  • Recognition of bravery and sacrifice:
    • Acknowledges Amelia Boynton Robinson, James Orange, Jimmie Lee Jackson, John Lewis, Martin Luther King, Jr., and others who marched for equality.
  • Policy/aspirational statements:
    • A call for citizens to remember the events and to advance collective morals toward true equality and universal rights.
    • References the passage of the Voting Rights Act as a milestone of the movement.
  • Formal conclusion:
    • “NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED” directing commemorative consideration and reflection within the state.
    • Certification of the resolution by the Secretary of the Senate (authenticating copy).

3) Who/What is Affected

  • Primarily a ceremonial expression of the Washington State Senate.
  • Applies to public memory and educational/civic discussions within Washington.
  • Honors individuals associated with the Bloody Sunday events and the broader Civil Rights Movement.

4) Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: March 7, 2025.
  • Adoption: March 7, 2025 (on the same day), reflecting a swift passage typical of commemorative resolutions.
  • Nature: Nonbinding, non-fiscal in nature; serves to acknowledge history, inspire reflection, and encourage civic engagement.

5) Impact and Significance

  • Symbolic/educational impact: Promotes awareness of Bloody Sunday, its impact on civil rights progress, and the ongoing importance of voting rights.
  • No statutory or budgetary changes; does not alter existing law.
  • May influence future state-sponsored commemorations, educational curricula, and public memory initiatives in Washington.

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

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