Velázquez Introduces Bill to Award Congressional Gold Medal to Trailblazing Afro-Latino, Puerto Rican Historian Arturo A. Schomburg

WASHINGTON– Today, Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) introduced legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a pioneering historian, writer, and activist, in recognition of his groundbreaking work in preserving and celebrating the history and culture of the African diaspora. The bill introduction coincides with the final day of Black History Month, underscoring the importance of honoring Schomburg’s legacy, particularly at a time when Black history faces ongoing challenges and revisionism.
 
“Arturo Schomburg spent his life proving that Black history is rich, deep, and invaluable,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “His passion for collecting and preserving stories of the African diaspora helped create an enduring resource for generations to come. Honoring him with a Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to his legacy and a reaffirmation of our commitment to preserving Black history.”
 
Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, in 1874, Schomburg immigrated to New York City in 1891, where he became a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance and the broader movement to document and celebrate Black history. His personal collection of over 10,000 books, manuscripts, and artifacts was acquired by the New York Public Library in 1926, laying the foundation for what is now the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, a world-renowned institution.
 
Schomburg’s collection included original newspapers published by Frederick Douglass, poetry by Phillis Wheatley, letters from Toussaint Louverture, and music composed by Chevalier de Saint-Georges. His work not only preserved these invaluable pieces of history but also inspired generations of scholars, writers, and artists to continue exploring and elevating the contributions of the African diaspora.
 
The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors bestowed by Congress. If awarded, Schomburg’s medal would be housed at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, with the recommendation that it be displayed at other locations associated with his legacy.
 
In addition to Velázquez, the bill was cosponsored by Reps. Darren Soto (D-FL), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), André Carson (D-IN), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Daniel Goldman (D-NY), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Frederica S. Wilson  (D-FL), and Summer Lee (D-PA).
 
For a full copy of the bill, click here.
 

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