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HB 847

State holiday; observe Robert E. Lee's birthday on the same day as Confederate Memorial Day.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kabir Karriem

Mississippi bill would consolidate Robert E. Lee's birthday observance with Confederate Memorial Day, honoring the Confederate general as an official state holiday.

Died In Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 847

Legislative bill overview

HB 847 would designate Robert E. Lee's birthday as a state holiday in Mississippi, consolidating its observance with the existing Confederate Memorial Day rather than as a separate holiday. The bill was introduced by Representative Kabir Karriem but died in committee in February 2025 without advancing to a floor vote.

Why is this important

State holidays reflect official recognition and commemoration of historical figures, often carrying symbolic weight about what a state chooses to honor. This proposal directly engages ongoing national debates about how to reckon with Confederate history and whether public resources should officially celebrate figures associated with the Civil War and slavery.

Potential points of contention

  • Historical memory and reconciliation: Civil rights advocates argue that official Lee commemorations can alienate Black citizens and complicate efforts toward racial healing, while proponents view it as honoring Southern heritage and historical figures.
  • Practical holiday administration: Mississippi already observes Confederate Memorial Day; consolidating it with Lee's birthday raises questions about whether this changes the existing holiday's character or simply renames it.
  • National trend direction: This bill contrasts with a broader national movement where cities and states have removed Confederate monuments and renamed holidays, making passage unlikely in the current political climate despite being introduced in a state with Confederate heritage observances.

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

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