A resolution recognizing the contributions of Black people to the musical heritage of the United States and the need for greater access to music education for Black students and designating June 2026 as "Black Music Month".
- Bill Number
- S.Res. 779
- Origin Chamber
- Senate
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Arts, Culture, Religion
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-06-18: Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. (text: CR S2938-2939)
- Last Updated
- 2026-07-08T15:30:07Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose This resolution recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of Black people to the musical heritage of the United States. It highlights the need for improved access to culturally relevant music education for Black students and designates June 2026 as "Black Music Month."
Key Provisions
- Lists numerous music genres and styles created or advanced by Black musicians, including spirituals, jazz, gospel, rhythm and blues, soul, Motown, funk, hip-hop, rock and roll, and others.
- Names specific Black artists, composers, and innovators such as Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Prince, Whitney Houston, and many others, along with their achievements.
- Notes the establishment of Black Music Month 47 years ago and the role of the National Museum of African American Music.
- Cites data on disparities in music education access, including lower participation rates for Black students and those from low-income families.
- Resolves that the Senate recognizes Black contributions to U.S. music, the need for greater access to music programs for Black students, and the importance of Black History Month and Black Music Month for celebration and education.
- Officially designates June 2026 as "Black Music Month."
Significant Changes to Existing Law This is a non-binding Senate resolution and introduces no amendments or changes to any existing statutes.
Potential Impacts
- Raises public awareness of Black musical contributions and educational gaps without creating new programs or funding.
- May encourage schools, communities, and cultural organizations to expand music education initiatives.
- Has no direct effects on government agencies, citizens' legal rights, or international relations.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Black students and families seeking music education.
- Music educators and schools, particularly those serving predominantly Black or low-income populations.
- Black musicians, composers, and cultural institutions.
- The U.S. Senate and broader public interested in cultural recognition.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications The resolution operates within the Senate's authority to pass symbolic measures and carries no enforceable legal requirements or constitutional challenges. It emphasizes cultural equity in education through recognition rather than mandates.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (3)
Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL], Sen. Van Hollen, Chris [D-MD], Sen. Klobuchar, Amy [D-MN]
Recent Actions
- 2026-06-18: Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. (text: CR S2938-2939)
- 2026-06-18: Submitted in Senate
Bill Versions
- Recognizing the contributions of Black people to the musical heritage of the United States and the need for greater access to music education for Black students and designating June 2026 as "Black Music Month". — issued 2026-06-18 — PDF (9 pages)