H.R.1817 - Arturo Alfonso Schomburg Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1817, the Arturo Alfonso Schomburg Congressional Gold Medal Act, seeks to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Arturo Alfonso Schomburg posthumously. This is in recognition of his work in collecting and preserving the history and culture of the African diaspora. The bill directs the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the presentation of the medal.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would result in the creation of a Congressional Gold Medal honoring Arturo Alfonso Schomburg. The medal would be displayed at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Duplicate bronze medals would be made available for sale to the public.
Potential Benefits
- Honors the legacy of Arturo Alfonso Schomburg and his contributions to preserving Black history and culture.
- Raises awareness of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture and its importance.
- Inspires future generations to engage with and celebrate the history of the African diaspora.
- Provides a tangible symbol of recognition for Schomburg's pioneering work.
- Enhances the collections and exhibits of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of striking the gold and bronze medals will be borne by the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- The bill does not specify the exact cost, which could be a concern for fiscal conservatives.
- Some may argue that other historical figures are equally deserving of such an honor, potentially leading to debates about prioritization.
- The act itself does not directly address any pressing current issues or provide tangible benefits beyond symbolic recognition.
- There is a risk that the impact of the award may be limited to academic and cultural circles, with less broad public awareness.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the preamble's goal to "promote the general Welfare" by recognizing and celebrating cultural contributions. Congress has the power to enact legislation, as granted by Article I, Section 1. The act does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).