PUBLIC LAW 99-482—OCT. 16, 1986
100 STAT. 1225
Public Law 99-482 99th Congress Joint Resolution To designate August 12, 1987, as "National Civil Rights Day".
Whereas the people of the United States are the heirs and beneficiaries of the courageous men and women who have struggled to achieve legal and social equality in the United States for men and women of every race, religion, and country; Whereas such men and women include Martin Luther King Jr., Susan B. Anthony, and Mary McLeod Bethune; Whereas the people of the United States should not forget that constant vigilance is necessary to ensure that civil rights are protected; Whereas the people of the United States should not forget that much yet remains to be accomplished with respect to securing civil rights for all the people of the United States; Whereas, in August 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. led a march in Washington, D.C., to demonstrate the need for legislation to protect the civil rights of the people of the United States; Whereas August 12, 1987, is an appropriate date on which to commemorate the progress made in securing civil rights and the need for continued progress; Whereas, at noon on such date, it would be appropriate for the people of the United States to pause for a moment of silence to pay tribute to the men and women who have struggled to secure civil rights for all the people of the United States; Whereas, during the moment of silence, it would be appropriate for all church bells to ring 11 times as a reminder that the hour is late with respect to continuing progress in securing civil rights for all the people of the United States; and Whereas the National Civil Rights Museum and Hall of Fame will be constructed in Gary, Indiana, to pay continued tribute to the fallen national heroes of civil rights and the cause which they embraced: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That August 12, 1987, is designated "National Civil Rights Day", and the President of the United States is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe such day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. Approved October 16, 1986.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY—H.J. Res. 686: CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 132 (1986): Aug. 8, considered and passed House. Sept. 12, considered and passed Senate, amended. Oct. 1, House concurred in Senate amendments.
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Oct. 16, 1986 [H.J. Res. 686]
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