S1032

The New York State Senate passed S1032, legislation to transfer the Amistad Commission from the State Department to the State Education Department, by a vote of 56-0. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Jackson, implements a recommendation from a 2016 report to better align the commission's mission with educational objectives. The Amistad Commission, established by the Legislature in 2005, is tasked with integrating the history of chattel slavery into state curriculum. Named after the historic 1839 Amistad uprising in which enslaved Africans aboard a Spanish vessel successfully fought for their liberation through a U.S. Supreme Court decision, the commission serves as a vehicle for educating students about slavery's history and its enduring impact on systemic racism. Sen. Jackson argued the relocation would enhance the commission's effectiveness and strengthen the state's commitment to teaching this critical aspect of American history. The bill takes effect immediately.

The New York State Senate passed legislation to amend the Arts and Cultural Affairs Law on a roll call vote of 57-0. Sponsored by Sen. Jackson, Senate Print 1032 (Calendar No. 284) received no recorded opposition. The bill, which takes effect immediately upon enactment, was called for a vote without floor debate. The measure advanced swiftly through the chamber with unanimous support.