[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 178 (Thursday, December 20, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S13932]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE 
                        PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION

  Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I rise today to discuss legislation that 
establishes the National Museum of African American History and Culture 
Presidential Commission. On Monday, December 17, 2001, the Senate 
passed, with my support, H.R. 3442 which establishes the National 
Museum of African American History and Culture Presidential Commission. 
The Presidential Commission will develop and recommend a legislative 
plan of action for creating a national museum on the National Mall that 
recognizes the unique historical and cultural legacy of African 
Americans. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the legislation, 
introduced by Representative John Lewis, on December 11, 2001 by voice 
vote.
  The African American legacy is one of gradual steps that have moved 
this group of Americans from slavery to full partnership in our society 
and culture. African Americans have played a central part in the 
development of our country's democratic institutions and our commitment 
to individual freedom and equal rights. Despite this history, there is 
currently no national museum located in Washington, D.C. on the 
National Mall devoted to telling the African American story. I believe 
this museum is the next stage in recognizing the burdens born by 
African Americans and celebrating their unique contributions to our 
nation.
  Many notable African Americans have made contributions in the areas 
of science, medicine, the arts and humanities, sports, music and dance. 
It is right to honor this legacy on a national level. I believe that by 
establishing this museum this nation will be able to finally honor the 
legacy of African Americans properly. By placing this museum on the 
National Mall, we will finally place the history of African Americans 
in a national light, where it belongs.
  The legislation creates a 23 member commission made up of individuals 
who specialize in African American history, education and museum 
professionals. The commission has nine months to present its 
recommendations to the President and Congress regarding an action plan 
for creating a national museum honoring African Americans. The 
Commission will decide the structure and make-up of the museum, devise 
a governing board for the museum, and among other action items, will 
decide whether to place the museum within the Smithsonian's Arts and 
Industries Building, which is the last existing space on the National 
Mall.
  This museum will commemorate and honor the 400 years of African 
American history in this country and beyond. Legislation was introduced 
just about every session of Congress between 1919 and 1929 to create a 
memorial building to house exhibits demonstrating the achievements of 
African Americans in art, science, invention and all aspects of life. I 
am both proud and pleased to be associated with this project and look 
forward to seeing this legislation signed into law by the President in 
the near future.

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