H.R. 1704: Revitalizing and Empowering Freedom Settlements Through Opportunity, Resilience, and Education Act

This bill, officially titled the "Revitalizing and Empowering Freedom Settlements Through Opportunity, Resilience, and Education Act," seeks to establish a program within the National Park Service focused on the preservation and recognition of Freedmen’s Settlements, Freedom Colonies, and Black Towns. Here’s a summary of its key components:

Purpose and Findings

The bill aims to acknowledge the historical significance of Freedmen’s Settlements, which were communities established by formerly enslaved African Americans after the Civil War. It highlights the struggles these communities faced due to systemic racism and their efforts to create self-sustaining environments despite these challenges. The bill recognizes the need to address the underdevelopment of these areas and the importance of documenting their histories.

Establishment of the National Freedom Settlements Preservation Program

The proposed program would be created to identify, research, and preserve the history and significance of Freedmen’s Settlements. It would involve:

• Coordinating federal and non-federal activities for preservation and interpretation.
• Recognizing and recording Historic Freedmen's Settlements.
• Encouraging educational programming about their history.

Authority to Award Grants

The Secretary of the Interior would be authorized to grant funds to eligible entities for various purposes, including:

• The identification of Freedom Settlements.
• Cultural preservation and tourism development.
• Research and documentation efforts.

Entities that could apply for grants include property owners, state and local governments, and community organizations.

Conducting a Study

The Secretary would conduct a study to identify key sites related to Freedmen’s Settlements that are important for understanding African American history. This study would involve public consultation and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Registry Maintenance

A registry of identified and verified Freedmen’s Settlements would be maintained and regularly updated. This registry aims to document historical sites engaged in preservation efforts.

Ensuring Private Property Protection

The bill guarantees that private property rights would not be affected without the owner's consent, ensuring that community involvement and agreement are central to the program’s operations.

Collaboration with Various Entities

The Secretary could enter cooperative agreements with various organizations and entities, including governmental bodies, nonprofit organizations, and scholars, to achieve the goals of the program.

Advisory Committee Creation

A Freedom Settlements Advisory Committee would be established to assist in the study and ensure that the voices of residents and their descendants are included in decision-making processes. Members would have expertise in African American history and community advocacy.

Funding

The bill authorizes a budget of $3 million annually from fiscal years 2026 to 2031 to support the program and its initiatives.

Relevant Companies

None found.