Reps. Rashida Tlaib and Sydney Kamlager-Dove introduced a new resolution on Juneteenth 2024 to honor, preserve, and invest in historic Freedmen’s Settlements.

Can you sign on today to show your support for this resolution?

Seeking economic opportunity and refuge from racial terror, free and formerly enslaved African Americans established over 1,200 Freedmen’s Settlements and Black Towns.

These were self-sustaining and thriving communities, which embody freedom and resilience. Despite facing racial violence, racist laws, and issues like environmental racism, some of these communities have persevered across the country, where descendants of formerly enslaved people still live.

Tanya DeBose, a resident of one such community in Independence Heights, Texas, said:

“Historic Black towns and settlements represent freedom. These places represent the authentic proof of life after emancipation and are living examples of the resiliency of the former enslaved. With only a handful left, yes, these places deserve to be preserved as they are part of the American story. If they are not preserved, once they are gone, they are gone and future generations will never know what our ancestors achieved after emancipation.”

With years of systemic racism and disinvestment, many of these communities lack access to essential infrastructure such as clean running water.

One of these communities is Sandbranch in Texas. A resident named Phyllis Gage explained: “Sandbranch has so much history in it. And we the homeowners who are left would love to one day have clean and running water through our homes. Our ancestors fought for this and here we are, still today, fighting just for clean water.”

These communities deserve better, including federal funding and recognition.

Please sign on now to support H.Res. 1309, the resolution to honor, preserve, and invest in historic Freedmen’s Settlements. These vibrant Black communities hold an important history that deserves recognition and protection.