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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, June
14, 2024, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced a resolution
celebrating the contributions of African Americans to the musical
heritage of the United States and designating June as African American
Music Appreciation Month. In addition, the resolution recognizes the
lack of access to arts education and training for African American
students and calls for greater access to music education.
“For hundreds of years, African
American music has been an integral part of America’s cultural
identity,” said Senator Booker. “This resolution honors the
extraordinary contributions of Black musicians like Aretha Franklin,
Prince, Miles Davis, and so many more who have shaped our nation’s
musical landscape. Investing in educating more students about the
richness of African American music will help ensure that future
generations can appreciate and contribute to the innovation,
creativity, and rich heritage that defines American music.”
“From Dayton to Detroit,
Memphis to St. Louis, Black musicians have created and shaped our
culture and music from the very beginning of our country. Dayton, Ohio
– known as the “Land of Funk’’– helped give rise to the mixture of
soul, jazz, and rhythm and blues that created the funk genre, and
continues to produce talented musicians today,” said Senator Brown.
“This legislation will finally give these pioneers the recognition they
deserve.”
“Despite their many
contributions to the American experience, Black artists, both past and
present, are often overlooked and lack access to music education” said
Senator Butler. “This resolution celebrates the powerful impact
musicians have had on culture, and emphasizes the need to empower and
support the next generation of talent.”
“Music and art help us
understand our history better, connect with others, and share our own
experiences. But for many Black artists and musicians, their rich
contributions to American culture have been underappreciated,” said
Senator Durbin. “In introducing this resolution with Senator Booker, I
hope to see the Senate give Black artists the recognition they deserve
and promote access to music education for underserved students.”
“The music scene in Minnesota
has been greatly influenced by African-American music. From Sounds of
Blackness and the Time to the duo of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis,
African-American musicians have played a significant role in American
culture,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Minnesota is also celebrated as the
birthplace of the legendary Prince and his iconic Purple Rain. His
music touched hearts, opened minds, and inspired millions around the
world to dance. This resolution recognizes the important contributions that
African-American musicians have made and continue to make to the
cultural fabric and musical heritage of our country.”
“African American music has
always been an integral part of our culture, shaping and enriching
countless genres across generations. This resolution recognizes the
creative ingenuity of Black musicians throughout our history – and the
influence that Black artists continue to have —while encouraging
greater musical education so young people have the opportunity to
explore and continue this legacy of artistic excellence,” said Senator
Van Hollen.
“The National Association for
Music Education is proud to endorse the African American Music
Appreciation Month resolution. Introduced by Senator Cory Booker, this
resolution highlights the rich and impactful contributions of African
American musicians to the musical history of the United States.
Additionally, this resolution shines a spotlight on the disparity in
access to music education for African American students, and the lack
of representation for African Americans in the music education
profession. The musical history of the United States is as diverse as
the country itself, but to continue our tradition of culturally diverse
musical offerings, we must ensure all students have access to a
comprehensive and culturally relevant music education. Thank you to
Senator Booker for recognizing June as African American Music
Appreciation Month and for your continued work to broaden access to
music and the arts,” said Deborah Confredo, President of The National
Association for Music Education (NAfME).
The resolution is cosponsored
by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Dick
Durbin (D-IL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).
To read the full text of the
resolution, click here.
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