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Senators introduce bill to designate Feb. 20 as Black Ohioan Civil War Medal of Honor Recipient Day
Summary
Senators Reynolds and Craig presented sponsor testimony on Senate Bill 253 seeking to designate Feb. 20 as Black Ohioan Civil War Medal of Honor Recipient Day to honor James H. Bronson, Robert A. Penn and Powhatan Beatty and to encourage educational recognition.
Senate Bill 253, sponsored by Senator Reynolds with joint sponsor Senator Craig, had its first hearing before the Senate Armed Services, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee as proponents described a proposal to designate Feb. 20 as "Black Ohioan Civil War Medal of Honor Recipient Day."
Senator Reynolds said the designation is meant to recognize James H. Bronson, Robert A. Penn and Powhatan Beatty and to ensure their contributions are not overlooked. "By formally recognizing February 20 as Black Ohioan Civil War Medal of Honor Recipient Day, we ensure that future generations will not forget," Reynolds said during the committee presentation.
Senator Craig, a joint sponsor, said the day would encourage education, reflection and community ceremonies and provide an opportunity for schools and civic groups across Ohio to engage with that part of the state's military history. "This is a necessary act of historical correction and intentional remembrance," Craig said.
Committee members did not record questions or a vote during this first hearing; senators urged further consideration and welcomed questions. The bill remains in committee for additional hearings and possible amendments.
