Expressing support for the designation of August 17, 2025, as Marcus Garvey Recognition Day.
Summary
House Resolution 655 expresses support for designating August 17, 2025, as "Marcus Garvey Recognition Day." The resolution highlights Garvey's contributions as the father of the largest African-American movement and his legacy in North American and Caribbean communities. It also acknowledges his efforts to promote economic independence for African Americans through the Universal Negro Improvement Association and the Black Star Line.
The resolution further notes the posthumous presidential pardon granted to Marcus Garvey in 2025. It asserts that recognizing his contributions to Black history is fitting and appropriate.
Ultimately, the resolution calls upon the President to issue a proclamation urging the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would formally express the House of Representatives' support for recognizing Marcus Garvey's contributions. It would also encourage the President to issue a proclamation for a national day of recognition.
This action could raise awareness of Marcus Garvey's legacy and contributions to Black history. It may also foster a greater appreciation for the importance of economic independence and self-help within the Black community.
However, the resolution itself does not have the force of law. It serves as a symbolic gesture of support and encouragement.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of Marcus Garvey's contributions to Black history and the Pan-African movement.
- Potential for fostering a greater understanding of the importance of economic independence and self-help within the Black community.
- Opportunity for educational initiatives and community events to celebrate Garvey's legacy.
- Symbolic recognition of the contributions of African Americans to the development of the United States.
- May strengthen ties between African-American communities and communities in the Caribbean.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution is largely symbolic and may not lead to tangible changes in policy or resource allocation.
- Potential for disagreement or controversy regarding Garvey's legacy and historical interpretations.
- May be perceived by some as divisive or unnecessary, particularly if they are unfamiliar with Garvey's contributions.
- Limited direct impact on addressing current social or economic challenges faced by the Black community.
- Could be seen as insufficient action in addressing systemic inequalities.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the principles of promoting the general welfare and securing the blessings of liberty. While the Constitution does not explicitly address commemorative resolutions, the act of recognizing historical figures and their contributions can be seen as promoting a more inclusive understanding of American history.
Furthermore, the resolution does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. It does not establish a religion, abridge freedom of speech, or violate any other protected liberties.
However, it's important to note that the resolution's impact is primarily symbolic and does not create any legally binding obligations. Therefore, its constitutional alignment is more about its compatibility with constitutional values than its direct enforcement of constitutional principles.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).