Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of the bill is to honor John Francis Wheaton, the first African American elected to the Minnesota legislature, by creating a commemorative work at the State Capitol. The act aims to celebrate his contributions to civil rights, racial justice, and public service in Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• Commemorative Work: A commemorative work for John Francis Wheaton will be designed and installed on the Capitol grounds. This will involve a public call for artists to ensure inclusive participation.
• Design and Installation Process: The Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board will oversee the design process with input from community leaders, civil rights organizations, historians, and representatives of the African American community.
• Timeline: The design and site selection are to be completed by December 31, 2026, and installation by December 31, 2027.
• Educational Initiatives: The commissioner of education will develop educational materials about Wheaton's impact to be used in Minnesota’s primary and secondary schools.
• Cultural Programs: The Minnesota Historical Society, in collaboration with African American cultural organizations, will create historical and cultural programming such as lectures and discussions.
• Legacy Day: An annual J. Frank Wheaton Legacy Day will be established to commemorate his contributions.
• Dedication Ceremony: An official dedication ceremony will be held upon the project's completion, engaging the broader community with historical reflections and discussions on government representation.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill requires the development and integration of new educational content into school curricula, focusing on John Francis Wheaton’s contributions.
• It establishes a new statewide observance, J. Frank Wheaton Legacy Day.

Relevant Terms

John Francis Wheaton, civil rights, racial justice, public service, African American contributions, commemorative work, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, education, cultural programming, J. Frank Wheaton Legacy Day, Minnesota Historical Society.