Bill 118 hr 7385, also known as the "John Mercer Langston Post Office Building Act," aims to designate the United States Postal Service facility located at 29 Franklin Street in Petersburg, Virginia, as the "John Mercer Langs...
ton Post Office Building."
John Mercer Langston was a prominent African American politician, attorney, and diplomat who made significant contributions to the civil rights movement in the 19th century. Langston was the first African American to be elected to public office in the United States when he was elected to the town council of Oberlin, Ohio in 1855. He later served as the first African American congressman from Virginia during Reconstruction.
The bill seeks to honor Langston's legacy and contributions to American history by naming the postal facility in Petersburg, Virginia after him. This designation would serve as a reminder of Langston's pioneering efforts in advancing civil rights and equality for all Americans.
If passed, the bill would officially rename the facility as the "John Mercer Langston Post Office Building," ensuring that Langston's name and legacy are preserved for future generations.