Queer legislators introduce bill to create national LGBTQ+ history museum
“As our community faces unprecedented attacks and attempts to erase our history, we must preserve and protect our stories for future generations.”
by Daniel Villarreal for LGBTQ Nation –
Out gay legislator Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) has introduced two bills to research and create a National Museum of American LGBTQ+ History and Culture. Though it’s the second time that he and House Democrats have introduced this legislation, It’s unlikely the bills will pass in the Republican-led House.
The first bill would create an eight-person commission of museum planners and LGBTQ+ researchers to identify potential locations for the museum and develop a fundraising plan so it may fully operate without government funding. The commission will have 18 months to complete its study and submit a legislative plan of action to Congress, The Hill reported. The second bill would formally create the museum.
In its report, the commission must address whether the museum should become a part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex. The commission must also assess the LGBTQ+ museum’s regional impact on other museums, and the costs of fundraising for its ongoing maintenance.
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