RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE PROFOUND REGRET OF THE CONNECTICUT GENERAL ASSEMBLY FOR THE HISTORY OF WRONGS INFLICTED UPON BLACK CITIZENS BY MEANS OF SLAVERY, EXPLOITATION AND LEGALIZED RACIAL SEGREGATION, AND CALLING ON ALL CITIZENS TO TAKE PART IN ACTS OF RACIAL RECONCILIATION.

1. issues an apology for slavery practiced in Connecticut and the official acts that sanctioned and perpetuated it;

2. vows to work to eliminate the residual structures of racism existing in the state;

3. urges educational, religious, civic, and business entities to acknowledge and learn from Connecticut's past, including as a leading state in the abolition efforts, to promote racial equality and reconciliation; and

4. calls on residents to recommit their state, communities, and themselves to work daily to promote equality, as proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence; treat all people with respect; and eliminate racial prejudices and injustices.

The resolution specifies that its does not provide any person with a right of action, or the grounds for a right of action, against the state for the payment of damages or reparations or for injunctive relief.

The resolution provides a brief history of how Connecticut first supported slavery and then worked toward its abolition. It acknowledges that several nations, states, and corporations have issued apologies for their roles in promoting slavery.

*House Amendment “A” adds the provision concerning the payment of damages or reparations or injunctive relief.

Yea

Nay

(03/27/2009)