Bill > S05116

This bill establishes the New York State Black History Preservation Commission within the State University of New York (SUNY) to document, preserve, and promote Black history in the state. The commission will consist of ten members, including representatives from SUNY, the governor's office, the state senate, and the state assembly, who will serve three-year terms without compensation but with reimbursed expenses. The commission's primary goals include advancing understanding of Black history through educational programs, documenting and preserving historical materials, ensuring Black New Yorkers' perspectives are heard by collaborating with cultural institutions, and advocating for legislative support for Black history initiatives. The chancellor of SUNY will serve as the commission's chair and provide institutional support. The commission is required to submit an annual report to the governor and legislature detailing its programs, the status of Black history knowledge, and research needs, and must meet publicly at least twice a year with advance notice. SUNY will support the commission by conducting joint research, creating public awareness campaigns, and developing educational materials to create a more inclusive representation of New York's history. The bill recognizes the significant contributions of Black communities to New York's development and aims to protect and celebrate their historical experiences from enslavement through the Civil Rights Movement to the present day.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5116