hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Creates National Council on African American History and Culture.
Sponsored by Rep. Mfume (D-MD), with many co-sponsors.
Introduced in the House, referred to committee.
This bill establishes a 12-member National Council on African American History and Culture within the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Council's main role is to advise on preserving and celebrating African American history and culture. Representative Kweisi Mfume, a Democrat from Maryland, introduced the bill with many co-sponsors. It is currently awaiting review by the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Introduced Feb 12, 2026
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 12, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce. For it to become law, it must pass both the House and the Senate, and then be signed by the President. No votes have been scheduled yet.
If this bill passes, the National Endowment for the Humanities would establish a new, 12-member council focused on African American history and culture. This council would submit annual reports on federal efforts in this area and monitor the work of museums and organizations. It would also evaluate existing federal programs and recommend national policies to promote understanding and celebration of African American contributions.
Supporters Say
Supporters would argue this council is crucial for nationally preserving and celebrating African American history and culture.
Critics Say
Critics might question the necessity of a new federal council or its potential scope of influence.
The bill outlines the council's duties to monitor, evaluate, and recommend national policies for African American history and culture, suggesting supporters believe this formal structure is necessary to ensure these efforts are comprehensive and effective. The bill attempts to address potential concerns about political bias by requiring the council to have an equal number of Democratic and Republican members, with bipartisan leadership.