Bill > HJ2

This resolution formally exonerates individuals who were accused, tried, or convicted of witchcraft in the Province of Maryland before the American Revolution. Recognizing that at least seven people were accused, two convicted, and one executed, the resolution acknowledges that these prosecutions were the result of community panic, fear, superstition, and systemic misogyny, and that legal procedures at the time did not meet modern standards of due process. The resolution accomplishes several key actions: it fully exonerates those formally convicted or executed for witchcraft, restores the reputations of those who were indicted, forced to flee, banished, or acquitted, offers an official apology from the State of Maryland to the descendants of the persecuted individuals, and acknowledges the ongoing trauma and shame experienced by their families. Additionally, the resolution requires that copies of the document be forwarded to Maryland's Governor, Senate President, and House Speaker, symbolizing the official nature of this historical reconciliation and recognition of past injustices.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HJ0002?ys=2025RS