Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.Res.264 - To support the naming of certain United States Navy ships after notable civil rights leaders and to strongly encourage the Department of Defense not to change the names of such ships. (119th Congress)

Summary

Senate Resolution 264 expresses strong support for naming John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oilers after notable civil rights leaders. It also encourages the Department of Defense to maintain these names. The resolution highlights the significance of honoring figures like John Lewis, Harvey Milk, and others who have contributed to civil rights advancement.

Expected Effects

This resolution, if adopted, would formally endorse the current naming convention for the John Lewis-class ships. It would also exert pressure on the Department of Defense to avoid renaming these vessels. This could reinforce the recognition of civil rights leaders within the military and broader society.

Potential Benefits

  • Honors Civil Rights Leaders: Recognizes and celebrates the contributions of prominent civil rights figures.
  • Promotes Equality and Justice: Reinforces the values of equality and justice within the military and society.
  • Symbolic Representation: Provides a tangible symbol of commitment to civil rights.
  • Educational Opportunity: Raises awareness and educates the public about civil rights history.
  • Upholds Legacy: Ensures the continued recognition and legacy of these leaders.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential for Controversy: Some may disagree with the selection of certain figures or the politicization of military assets.
  • Limited Impact: The resolution itself has no binding legal authority.
  • Resource Allocation: No direct disadvantages regarding resource allocation.
  • Exclusion of Other Contributions: Focus on civil rights leaders might overshadow contributions from other fields.
  • Risk of Hypocrisy: If the Navy's actions don't align with the values of the honorees, it could be seen as performative.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution aligns with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the principles of equality and justice. While the Constitution doesn't explicitly address the naming of naval vessels, the resolution promotes values consistent with the pursuit of a "more perfect Union" as stated in the Preamble. Furthermore, honoring civil rights leaders can be seen as supporting the ongoing effort to ensure equal protection under the law, as envisioned by the 14th Amendment.

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).