Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for an event to unveil the statue of Barbara Rose Johns.
Summary
H.Con.Res.62 authorizes the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for an event on December 16, 2025, to unveil the statue of Barbara Rose Johns. The resolution specifies that physical preparations for the event will be carried out under conditions prescribed by the Architect of the Capitol. This is a concurrent resolution passed by both the House and Senate.
Expected Effects
The resolution enables the unveiling ceremony to proceed as planned in Emancipation Hall. It provides the necessary authorization for the event to take place in a designated space within the Capitol Visitor Center. The Architect of the Capitol will oversee the logistical preparations.
Potential Benefits
- Honoring a Civil Rights Figure: The event recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Barbara Rose Johns to the Civil Rights Movement.
- Educational Opportunity: The unveiling provides an opportunity to educate the public about Johns's role in the fight for equality.
- Promoting Civic Engagement: The event can inspire civic engagement and awareness of historical figures who championed justice.
- Enhancing Cultural Heritage: The addition of the statue enriches the cultural heritage represented within the Capitol Visitor Center.
- Symbolic Significance: Holding the event in Emancipation Hall adds symbolic weight, given the hall's name and historical context.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Cost: There may be costs associated with the event preparations, although the resolution does not specify the amount.
- Logistical Challenges: Organizing and managing a large event in a high-profile location can present logistical challenges.
- Disruptions: The event may cause temporary disruptions to visitor access within the Capitol Visitor Center.
- Security Concerns: High-profile events require security measures that could impact visitor experience.
- Opportunity Cost: The use of Emancipation Hall for this event may preclude its use for other purposes on the same date.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the spirit of the Constitution by honoring an individual who contributed to the advancement of civil rights. While the Constitution does not explicitly address commemorative events, Congress's power to manage its facilities implies the authority to authorize such events. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to control federal property.
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).