Black state legislators gave impassioned speeches Wednesday about the importance of June 19 as a cultural holiday for Black Americans before the bill’s almost-unanimous passage from the state House and Senate.
“This bill is about a holiday but it’s a lot more than that,” said Rep. Anthony Nolan. The legislation, he said, represents “freedom for Black people that has been delayed.”
The bill passed in the House 148-1 and the Senate 30-1. The bill is now headed to Gov. Ned Lamont’s desk.
Following discussion on the cost of the bill, Rep. Robyn Porter said it reminded her of the “cost that my people, Black people, paid as this country was built on our backs.”
She continued: “What it costs us and collateral when it came to having our names, our religion, our entire being and social network, dismantled and destroyed.”
Black legislators in support of the bill recalled the long history of slavery, racism and discrimination in America.
“We stand on the grounds of blood, sweat, tears, torn hands, torn feet, separated families, murdered fathers, mothers, babies, and I believe that it is important that we take time, dedicate time to honoring those who have fought for all of our freedom,” said Rep. Treneé McGee.