Clyburn, Scott, Blunt Rochester, Carey Reintroduce Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06), U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Congressman Mike Carey (OH-15) reintroduced the Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act. The proposed legislation aims to authorize the National Park Service to coordinate and facilitate Federal and non-Federal activities to commemorate, honor, and interpret the history of the African American civil rights movements, the significance of civil rights activities as crucial elements in the evolution of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and recognize the relevance of the African American civil rights movements in fostering the spirit of social justice and national reconciliation.

The Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act would reauthorize the program for ten years following the enactment of the Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act.

"The importance of this legislation is embodied in that one word - network," said Congressman James E. Clyburn. "Today, South Carolina's top economic engines are transportation and tourism. And the fastest growing aspect of tourism is Heritage tourism. This legislation is pivotal because it involves a network of 29 states that designate sites for visitation that will grow the economy most especially in rural communities. These sites encapsulate the challenges and triumphs of African Americans' ongoing journey towards a more perfect Union. We must reauthorize this effort so we can continue telling America's full history."

"The African American Civil Rights Network Act of 2017 cemented the historic Civil Rights Movement's legacy in communities across the country. Now, as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, this is a moment to further reflect on how the movement shaped our nation," said Senator Blunt Rochester. "I'm proud to lead the bipartisan African American Civil Rights Network Reauthorization Act alongside Senator Scott, Congressman Clyburn, and Congressman Carey to continue preserving our nation's history and honor the Americans who led an era of change."

"As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our great country, we must focus on preserving our history for future generations of Americans," said Rep. Carey. "Preserving the stories and sites of the civil rights movement in Ohio and across the country will ensure that future generations have a better understanding of our nation's rich history and the ongoing pursuit of equality for all Americans, all while increasing tourism and economic activity in our communities. I would like to thank Congressman Clyburn for his leadership on this important legislation and am proud to join him in this effort."

"Trust for Public Land applauds Congressman Jim Clyburn, Congressman Mike Carey, Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, and Senator Tim Scott for their outstanding leadership and diligent efforts to connect Americans to our shared history, as evidenced today through the introduction of the Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act," said Dr. Jocelyn Imani, Director of Black History and Culture at Trust for Public Land. "This legislation will enable the continuation of this vital National Park Service program, linking together the people, places, and moments from the African American Civil Rights movement and preserving and sharing this monumental chapter of our nation's history. As we reflect on the enduring pursuit of those self-evident truths first penned in our Declaration of Independence 250 years ago, we urge Congress to advance and pass this important legislation."

"The National Trust for Historic Preservation's Action Fund and its partners are proud to stand in solidarity with organizations across the African American Civil Rights Network (AACRN) in affirming that sustained support for this National Park Service program is critical to preserving a powerful and uniquely American legacy for future generations. The AACRN is a vital network of preservation partners committed to telling the full story of America's civil rights journey," said Brent Leggs, executive director of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund and strategic advisor to the CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "We applaud the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Jim Clyburn (D-SC) and Mike Carey (R-OH) and Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) and Tim Scott (R-SC) in sponsoring this critical legislation, and we urge Congress to reauthorize the AACRN program to enable continued advancement of its mission."

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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