Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Commemorative Resolution Martha Hughes Cannon topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
House approves resolution to honor Martha Hughes Cannon, students urge statue in State Capitol
Summary
The Utah House passed HCR 2 on Feb. 1, 1995, honoring Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon and endorsing placement of a bronze statue and plaque in the State Rotunda. Students who researched Cannon described her medical career and legislative accomplishments before the resolution passed 71–0.
The Utah House on Feb. 1, 1995, approved HCR 2, a commemorative resolution recognizing Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon and authorizing efforts to place a bronze statue and historical plaque in the State Capitol rotunda.
Supporters said Cannon’s life exemplified public service and pioneering leadership. Under suspension of the rules, Representative Dillery introduced the resolution, saying the Martha Hughes Cannon Centennial Commission would raise private funds to select a sculptor and place the statue. "How appropriate is that we, during our centennial celebration, place a bronze statue and historical plaque of Martha Hughes Cannon in the Utah State Rotunda," he said.
The bill’s nut graf: lawmakers noted Cannon’s achievements as a physician, the first woman state senator in the nation in 1896, and sponsor of early public-health and worker-protection measures. The House heard presentations by Mountain Shadows Elementary students who outlined Cannon’s biography and work. Sixth-grader Jennifer Perry summarized legislative accomplishments, saying Cannon "introduced three major bills" including education for children with hearing and sight impairments and creation of a State Board of Health.
During debate, several representatives praised the resolution’s educational and historical value. Representative Ralph Meyer said Cannon "showed the ability to balance church, family, and public service." After brief discussion and a waived summation, the House recorded the vote: HCR 2 passed with 71 yes votes, 0 no votes. The resolution will be forwarded to the Senate for consideration.
The House also recognized members of the Martha Hughes Cannon Centennial Commission and described the commission’s role in fundraising and selecting placement and artist. The resolution and presentations were intended to coincide with upcoming centennial observances and to raise public awareness of Cannon’s contributions to public health and women’s civic participation.
The House adjourned after additional business; HCR 2 will proceed to the Senate for further action.
