African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center Study Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [D-NY]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 9, 2025
Bottom line
This bill mandates a study to explore the creation of a new museum and educational center dedicated to the African Burial Ground and the history of slavery, aiming to honor the enslaved and educate the public.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a comprehensive study to assess the suitability and feasibility of establishing the African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center at the African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City. The study must evaluate potential collections, educational opportunities, community support, management entities, and specific proposed locations for the museum.
Proponents argue
Supporters would argue that establishing such a museum and educational center is crucial for preserving and interpreting the history of enslaved Africans in the United States and globally, providing a vital space for remembrance, education, and cultural understanding. They would emphasize the importance of the African Burial Ground as a significant historical site and the need for a dedicated institution to expand its educational reach and impact.
Opponents contend
Critics might raise concerns about the potential costs associated with a new federal study and, subsequently, a new federal museum, especially if existing institutions could fulfill similar educational and preservation goals. Concerns could also be raised about the specific proposed locations or the potential for duplication of efforts with other museums like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, though the bill explicitly encourages collaboration.
The bill is concise and clearly written, making it accessible for a reader to understand its purpose and provisions within a short timeframe.
Section 3(a)
Mandate for African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center Study
This section directs the Secretary of the Interior, through the National Park Service, to conduct a comprehensive study. The study will assess whether it is suitable and feasible to establish a new museum and educational center at the African Burial Ground National Monument. The purpose of this center would be to honor enslaved Africans, reflect on the site's significance, explore African cultural traditions, and examine the institution of slavery globally.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that a dedicated study is a necessary first step to determine the best way to honor the legacy of enslaved Africans and provide a comprehensive educational resource. They believe the study will ensure that any future museum is well-planned, financially viable, and effectively serves its mission.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against conducting a study, as it is a preliminary step. However, some might argue that resources for a study could be better allocated to direct preservation efforts or existing educational programs if the outcome is uncertain or if there are concerns about the eventual cost of establishing a new institution.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is between the desire for a comprehensive memorial and educational center and the practical considerations of suitability, feasibility, and cost. The study aims to navigate these by providing data-driven recommendations.
Section 3(a)(2)
Requirements for the Suitability and Feasibility Study
This subsection details specific elements the study must analyze and document. These include assessing the availability and distinctiveness of potential collections (including DNA samples), the opportunities the museum would provide for understanding the international slave trade and slavery in various contexts, the level of community and financial support, the best management entity (e.g., Secretary of the Interior, GSA), and public support for specific proposed locations (22 Reade Street or other areas within the National Monument).