Sens. Landrieu, Webb Reintroduce Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission Act

WASHINGTON – United States Senators Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., and Jim Webb, D-Va., today reintroduced the Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission Act, which aims to ensure suitable commemoration for Civil War's 150th anniversary. The bill is supported by a dozen national historical preservation groups.

"We must remember the legacies of the Civil War," Sen. Landrieu said. "The United States emerged completely altered after the four years of struggle, and as a testament of American resilience, grew stronger than it was before. The cultural and political ramifications still shape the American landscape today. It was in the era of Reconstruction that Congress adopted the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution, acknowledging black Americans as free and equal citizens of the United States. The Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission Act of 2011 is about preserving that memory."

“As someone with ancestors who fought on both sides of the American Civil War, its 150th Anniversary has personal significance,” Sen. Webb said. “It is important that all Americans remain aware of the many sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians on both sides, and of the long-term impact of the Civil War on our country. The intention of this commission is to ensure the proper recognition of the sesquicentennial, building upon previous legislative efforts to support education and commemoration of this turning point in American history.”

Consisting of 25 members from government, business and academia, the Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission will work together with state and local governments, as well as various organizations, to develop and assist with commemoration activities.