We, the undersigned, call on Texas lawmakers to sponsor and pass the Freedmen Status Bill during the 2025 legislative session.

For too long, the descendants of Freedmen—formerly enslaved individuals emancipated after the Civil War—have faced systemic disparities and a lack of recognition for their invaluable contributions to Texas history and culture. The Freedmen Status Bill represents a historic opportunity to honor this legacy and create targeted opportunities for these communities, including:

 • Formal Recognition: Establishing official recognition for Freedmen descendants as a distinct group with unique historical significance.

 • Economic Empowerment: Promoting access to educational and economic resources to address generational inequities.

 • Historical Preservation: Protecting and preserving Freedmen cemeteries, communities, and other historical sites critical to Texas’s rich heritage.

This bill is not about revisiting the past; it is about building a stronger, fairer future for all Texans. It reflects our shared values of justice, equality, and respect for history while promoting self-sufficiency and opportunity.

By signing this petition, we urge Texas legislators to act decisively and sponsor this critical legislation. The time for leadership is now. Let’s ensure Texas remains a state that values justice and fairness for all.