Original Slavery Remembrance Month Resolution

This joint resolution, titled the "Original Slavery Remembrance Month Resolution," seeks to formally support the annual designation of August as "Slavery Remembrance Month." The primary purpose is to serve as a crucial reminder of the profound evils of slavery, its continuing societal effects, and to honor the numerous freedom fighters who courageously fought to end this horrific crime against humanity. The resolution specifically notes the historical significance of August 1619, when the enslavement of African people began in the American colonies. Furthermore, the resolution explicitly condemns slavery and its various "evil progenies," which include practices and systems like convict leasing, Black codes, Jim Crow laws, mass lynching, lawful segregation, police brutality, mass incarceration, and institutionalized invidious discrimination. It also posthumously recognizes several Members of Congress from the Reconstruction Era as honorary cosponsors, acknowledging their historical significance. The resolution encourages all people to acknowledge the importance of slavery remembrance and authorizes the President to issue a proclamation calling for appropriate ceremonies and activities during this designated month.