H.Con.Res.17 - Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony as part of the commemoration of the days of remembrance of victims of the Holocaust. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Con.Res.17 authorizes the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony commemorating the victims of the Holocaust on April 23, 2025. The resolution was passed by the House of Representatives on March 10, 2025. It directs the Architect of the Capitol to oversee physical preparations for the ceremony.
The resolution itself is a simple authorization for the use of a specific space for a specific event. It does not involve complex policy changes or appropriations.
The event is intended to serve as a remembrance of the victims of the Holocaust.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be the holding of a ceremony in Emancipation Hall to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust. This will provide a venue for remembrance and reflection.
In the longer term, the event may contribute to Holocaust education and awareness. It also serves as a symbolic gesture of remembrance by the US government.
No significant policy or legal changes are anticipated as a result of this resolution.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a venue for honoring and remembering the victims of the Holocaust.
- Raises awareness about the Holocaust and its historical significance.
- Affirms the US government's commitment to Holocaust remembrance and education.
- May foster a sense of unity and shared values among attendees.
- Reinforces the importance of human rights and the prevention of genocide.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with preparing and securing Emancipation Hall for the event (though likely minimal).
- Possible disruptions to regular visitor traffic in the Capitol Visitor Center on the day of the ceremony.
- Risk of the event being politicized or used for partisan purposes (though this is unlikely).
- Some may view the event as insufficient action to combat antisemitism and other forms of hate.
- Limited direct impact on addressing contemporary issues related to human rights or social justice.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the emphasis on promoting the general welfare and securing the blessings of liberty. While there is no specific constitutional provision directly addressing Holocaust remembrance, the event can be seen as consistent with the broader principles of human rights and dignity.
The First Amendment protects the rights of speech and assembly, which are indirectly supported by providing a venue for this commemorative event. The resolution does not violate any specific constitutional provisions.
Congress's power to manage its own buildings and grounds also supports the constitutionality of this resolution under Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.
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).