Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the African Americans who duly won election to the House during the post-Civil War Reconstruction Era but were wrongly denied the right to take their seats should be recognized as former Members of the House.

Bill 118 H.Res. 817, titled "Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the African Americans who duly won election to the House during the post-Civil War Reconstruction Era but were wrongly denied the right to take their seats should be recognized as former Members of the House," aims to acknowledge and honor African Americans who were elected to the House of Representatives during the Reconstruction Era following the Civil War, but were unjustly denied the opportunity to serve.

The bill highlights the historical context of this period, when African Americans were able to participate in the political process and were elected to Congress, only to face discrimination and barriers that prevented them from taking their rightful seats. By recognizing these individuals as former Members of the House, the bill seeks to correct this historical injustice and give them the recognition they deserve for their contributions to American democracy.

The bill does not propose any specific actions or policies, but rather expresses the sentiment of the House of Representatives that these African American individuals should be acknowledged and remembered as part of the history of the House. It serves as a symbolic gesture of respect and recognition for these trailblazing individuals who fought against systemic racism and discrimination to participate in the democratic process. Overall, Bill 118 H.Res. 817 is a non-partisan effort to honor the legacy of African American Members of Congress who were denied the opportunity to serve during a critical period in American history. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice, and the importance of recognizing and learning from the mistakes of the past.