III 111th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 226 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES July 29, 2009 Mrs. Lincoln (for herself and Mrs. Hutchison) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary August 5, 2009 Committee discharged; considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating September 2009 as Gospel Music Heritage Month and honoring gospel music for its valuable contributions to the culture of the United States.

Whereas gospel music is a beloved art form of the United States; Whereas gospel music is a cornerstone of the musical traditions of the United States and has spread beyond origins in African-American spirituals to achieve popular cultural and historical relevance; Whereas gospel music has spread beyond geographic origins in the United States to touch audiences around the world; and Whereas gospel music is a testament to the universal appeal of a historical art form of the United States that both inspires and entertains across racial, ethnic, religious, and geographical boundaries: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)designates September 2009 as Gospel Music Heritage Month; and (2)recognizes the valuable contributions to the culture of the United States derived from the rich heritage of gospel music and gospel music artists.