Springfield Race Riot National Historic Monument Act

Bill 118 hr 2415, also known as the Springfield Race Riot National Historic Monument Act, aims to establish a national historic monument in Springfield, Illinois to commemorate the 1908 race riot that occurred in the city. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 1, 2019 by Representative Rodney Davis.

The 1908 race riot in Springfield was a violent and tragic event that resulted in the deaths of several African Americans and the destruction of many homes and businesses in the African American community. The riot was sparked by false rumors of a white woman being assaulted by a black man, and quickly escalated into a full-scale riot that lasted for several days.

The proposed national historic monument would serve as a reminder of the racial tensions and violence that have plagued our nation's history, and would honor the memory of those who lost their lives in the riot. The monument would also provide educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the history of racial discrimination and violence in America. If passed, the bill would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish the monument and provide funding for its maintenance and upkeep. The monument would be managed by the National Park Service, and would be open to the public for educational and commemorative purposes. Overall, the Springfield Race Riot National Historic Monument Act seeks to acknowledge and remember a dark chapter in American history, and to promote understanding and reconciliation among all Americans.