Bill > HRes633

This resolution honors Prince Hall, a free Black man from colonial Boston who lived from approximately 1735 to 1807 and was a significant activist during the American Revolutionary period. After being denied membership in an all-White Masonic lodge in 1775, Hall and 14 other free Black men formed their own lodge, African Lodge #1 (later renamed African Lodge No. 459), which led to him being known as the "Father of Black Freemasonry". The resolution highlights Hall's numerous contributions to social justice, including petitioning the Massachusetts government to abolish slavery in 1777, drafting the Boston Plan in 1787 to help African Americans potentially resettle in Africa, and advocating for the protection of Black sailors from kidnapping and enslavement in 1788. The resolution also recognizes the enduring impact of Hall's work, noting that the Prince Hall Freemasons are considered the oldest continuously active organization founded by African Americans in the United States, with his original lodge's legacy now spanning 5,000 lodges and 47 grand lodges. Ultimately, the House of Representatives formally recognizes Hall's significant contributions as a Revolutionary Era activist and his lasting impact on the African-American fight for justice.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-resolution/633/all-info