Summary of Bill HR 8182
Bill 117 HR 8182, also known as the James Weldon Johnson Commemorative Coin Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to authorize the minting and issuance of commemorative coins in honor of James Weldon Johnson, a prominent figure in American history.
James Weldon Johnson was a writer, educator, lawyer, diplomat, and civil rights activist who lived from 1871 to 1938. He is best known for writing the lyrics to the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing," which has become known as the Black National Anthem. Johnson was also the first African American to be appointed as executive secretary of the NAACP and served as a US diplomat in Venezuela and Nicaragua.
If passed, this bill would authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue coins in recognition of James Weldon Johnson's contributions to American history and culture. The coins would be available in various denominations and designs, with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the coins going towards supporting educational programs and initiatives that promote awareness of Johnson's legacy.
Overall, the James Weldon Johnson Commemorative Coin Act seeks to honor the life and achievements of James Weldon Johnson through the creation of commemorative coins that will serve as a lasting tribute to his legacy.
Congressional Summary of HR 8182
James Weldon Johnson Commemorative Coin Act
This bill directs the Department of the Treasury to mint and issue 400,000 $1 silver coins emblematic of James Weldon Johnson, an influential writer, diplomat, educator, lawyer, and civil rights activist.
All surcharges received by Treasury from the sale of such coins must be paid to Historic Stanton, Inc. and the James Weldon Johnson Foundation.