[Congressional Bills 110th Congress] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office] [H. Con. Res. 377 Engrossed in House (EH)] 110th CONGRESS 2d Session H. CON. RES. 377 _______________________________________________________________________ CONCURRENT RESOLUTION Whereas African American men and women have served with distinction, courage, and honor in the United States Armed Forces throughout the history of the nation, even when they were denied the basic constitutional freedoms promised to all citizens; Whereas the practice of racial segregation and discrimination in the military prevented African Americans from receiving the full recognition to which they were entitled as a result of their service; Whereas African Americans, in leading the effort to protest discriminatory treatment in the armed forces, paved the way for successful integration of women, Asians, Hispanics, and other ethnic minorities; Whereas the dedicated and heroic service of African American men and women during World War II led to President Truman's historic executive order 60 years ago that marked the beginning of racial integration in the United States Armed Forces; Whereas as a result of President Truman's action, the United States Armed Forces has become one of the nation's best examples of an institution committed to equality, opportunity, and advancement based on merit rather than race, religion, or ethnicity; and Whereas the heroic contributions of each member of the United States Armed Forces should be honored and celebrated: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), SECTION 1. USE OF ROTUNDA FOR CEREMONY COMMEMORATING 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF INTEGRATION OF THE ARMED FORCES. (a) Use of Rotunda.--The rotunda of the Capitol is authorized to be used on July 23, 2008, for a ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of President Truman's Executive Order No. 9981, which states, ``It is hereby declared to be the policy of the President that there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion or national origin.''. (b) Preparations.--Physical preparations for the ceremony referred to in subsection (a) shall be carried out in accordance with such conditions as the Architect of the Capitol may prescribe. Passed the House of Representatives June 25, 2008. Attest: Clerk. 110th CONGRESS 2d Session H. CON. RES. 377 _______________________________________________________________________ CONCURRENT RESOLUTION Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for a ceremony commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the beginning of the integration of the United States Armed Forces.