H.R.1377 - Sarah Keys Evans Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1377, the "Sarah Keys Evans Congressional Gold Medal Act," seeks to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Sarah Keys Evans in recognition of her contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. The bill highlights Evans's courageous act of refusing to give up her seat on an interstate bus, which led to the landmark court case Sarah Keys v. Carolina Coach Company. This case outlawed the segregation of Black passengers on interstate buses.
The bill directs the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the presentation of the gold medal. It also instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike the medal and authorizes the creation and sale of bronze duplicates.
The findings section of the bill details the events surrounding Evans's experience and the subsequent legal battle, emphasizing the significance of her actions in challenging segregation.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to formally recognize Sarah Keys Evans's contribution to the Civil Rights Movement through the awarding of a Congressional Gold Medal. This recognition serves as a symbolic gesture, honoring her bravery and the impact of her case on desegregating interstate transportation.
Beyond the symbolic recognition, the bill may also raise public awareness of Sarah Keys Evans's story and the broader history of the Civil Rights Movement. This could lead to increased appreciation for the struggles and sacrifices made by individuals who fought against segregation.
Potential Benefits
- Recognition of a Civil Rights Pioneer: The bill honors Sarah Keys Evans, acknowledging her pivotal role in the fight against segregation.
- Increased Awareness: It brings attention to a lesser-known but significant event in Civil Rights history.
- Educational Value: The bill can serve as a tool for educating future generations about the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement.
- Symbolic Importance: The Congressional Gold Medal represents the nation's gratitude and respect for Evans's courage.
- Inspiration: Evans's story can inspire individuals to stand up against injustice and inequality.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited Direct Impact: The bill is primarily symbolic and does not directly address current societal issues.
- Cost of Medal Production: There are costs associated with striking the gold medal and its duplicates, although these are likely minimal.
- Potential for Political Division: While unlikely, some may view the bill through a partisan lens, politicizing a civil rights issue.
- Risk of Overshadowing Other Figures: There's a slight risk that focusing on one individual could inadvertently overshadow the contributions of others in the Civil Rights Movement.
- No Tangible Policy Change: The bill does not enact any new laws or policies to address ongoing issues of discrimination.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the spirit of the US Constitution, particularly the principles of equal protection under the law. While the Constitution does not explicitly mandate the awarding of Congressional Gold Medals, it does empower Congress to legislate for the general welfare of the United States (Article I, Section 8).
The bill's recognition of Sarah Keys Evans's fight against segregation is consistent with the ideals of equality and justice enshrined in the 14th Amendment. The 14th Amendment ensures that no state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
Furthermore, honoring individuals who have advanced civil rights aligns with the broader constitutional goal of forming a more perfect union and securing the blessings of liberty.
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).