S.498 - United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.498, the United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act, seeks to posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to African Americans who served with Union forces during the Civil War. The bill recognizes their bravery and outstanding service. The medal would be presented collectively and then housed at the Smithsonian Institution for display and research.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would formally honor the contributions of African American soldiers and sailors during the Civil War. This recognition aims to address historical omissions and celebrate their role in preserving the Union and advancing emancipation. The creation and display of the medal will serve as a lasting tribute.
Potential Benefits
- Symbolic Recognition: Provides long-overdue recognition to African American Civil War veterans.
- Educational Opportunity: The medal's display at the Smithsonian and other locations will educate the public about their contributions.
- Historical Correction: Acknowledges and rectifies the historical exclusion of African American contributions.
- Inspiration: Serves as an inspiration for future generations by highlighting the bravery and service of these individuals.
- Promotes Unity: Can foster a greater sense of national unity by recognizing the diverse contributions to American history.
Potential Disadvantages
- Financial Cost: There will be costs associated with striking the gold and bronze medals, although these are to be covered by the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- Limited Direct Impact: The act is primarily symbolic and does not directly address current socio-economic issues.
- Potential for Controversy: While unlikely, some may question the focus on a specific group, despite the historical context of the bill.
- Risk of Oversimplification: The act may lead to an oversimplified understanding of the complexities of race and the Civil War.
- Missed Opportunities: The act does not include any provisions for descendants of the USCT.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly in promoting a more perfect Union and ensuring domestic Tranquility by acknowledging the contributions of all who served the nation. While there is no specific clause mandating such recognition, Congress's power to legislate for the general Welfare (Preamble) and to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8) implicitly supports honoring military service. The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, which abolished slavery and granted citizenship and voting rights to African Americans, provide a constitutional backdrop for recognizing their contributions during the Civil War.
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).