MEDIA ADVISORY AND PUBLIC NOTICE 

Congressman Al Green Introduces Historic Original Slavery Remembrance Month Resolution

(Washington, DC) — On Friday, February 28, 2025, Congressman Al Green introduced the historic “Original Slavery Remembrance Month Resolution” supporting the designation of August as Slavery Remembrance Month, to serve as a reminder of the evils of slavery, its continuing effects, and the freedom fighters who fought to end this horrific crime against humanity. A copy of this resolution can be accessed by clicking here. 

This resolution recognizes August 1619 as the seminal moment in history when African people were initially enslaved in the colonies that would become the foundation of the United States of America. It honors the strength of enslaved individuals, condemns the lasting effects of slavery, and acknowledges the immense human cost of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. It celebrates the contributions of freedom fighters as well as abolitionists who resisted oppression and fought for liberation. It also advocates for inclusion of their legacies in our historical narrative.

Congressman Al Green stated, “This Black History Month, as the progenitor of August 20, 1619, as Slavery Remembrance Day, I am honored to introduce the historic Original Slavery Remembrance Month Resolution. It will serve as a time to honor the resilience of those who endured the horrors of slavery and contributed to the liberation of the enslaved. It is also an opportunity to ceremoniously honor the enslaved as well as commemorate the deep scars and immeasurable suffering left by centuries of invidious discrimination. We not only pay tribute to the enslaved who are the economic foundational mothers and fathers of America, but also preserve their narrative so that such atrocities are never repeated. By acknowledging this history, we are exposing the ‘great American cover-up’ – a crime against humanity.”