Booker Reintroduces Resolution Honoring the Legacy, Power, and Global Impact of Black Musicians

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) honored the indelible and world-shaping contributions of Black Americans to the musical heritage of the United States and reaffirmed June as Black Music Appreciation Month. The resolution recognizes that Black artists, composers, producers, and innovators have defined entire genres, transformed global culture, and expanded the nation's understanding of freedom, expression, and identity. The resolution also underscores the persistent inequities in access to arts and music education for Black students - disparities that limit opportunity, stifle creativity, and weaken the pipeline of future artists. It calls for robust, equitable access to music education and training so that every child, regardless of zip code or background, can develop their artistic gifts. U.S. Representatives Shontel M. Brown (D-OH-11), Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY-05), and André Carson (D-IN-07) have introduced companion legislation in the House.

"America's musical story has always been carried by the brilliance and resilience of Black artists," said Senator Booker. " In New Jersey, we feel that truth in our bones-from the gospel roots that shaped us to Whitney Houston, whose voice lifted our state and our spirit. Today, we honor that legacy and recommit ourselves to giving every child the chance to learn, create, and find their own voice through music."

"As America celebrates 250 years, it is essential that Black history be a part of the story, including our incredible contributions through music. Black music has enriched American culture in countless ways, has shaped every era of our nation's history and has inspired people to pursue justice and freedom. It has served as a public account of the history of the American people and should be celebrated for its significant contributions to the story of America. I am proud to have Congressman Carson and Congressman Meeks, Co-Chairs of the Hip Hop Power and Justice Task Force, as this resolution's co-leads," said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.

"Music is more than entertainment for African American communities, it tells our stories, honors our struggles, celebrates our triumphs and continues to influence culture across the globe," said Congressman Greg Meeks. "I am proud to represent a district that has been home to legendary artists such as John Coltrane and Lena Horne. These artists, and so many more, help shape the sound of America. Let us continue celebrating the legacy and global impact of Black music this month, and many more to come."

"Black Music Month is a celebration of our stories, our artistry, and our culture. American music - and the music of the world - simply would not be the same without our contributions. I'm fighting to protect and nurture Black artists. This month, let's celebrate the past, present, and future of Black music," said Congressman André Carson.

"In our young nation, music has evolved into something uniquely American, shaped by the many cultures that collectively define us. Black music is central to this innovation, with roots sown and nurtured by communities nationwide. From classrooms to concert halls, our shared creativity continues to build on the sounds that define American music," said NAfME President Cecil Adderley. "Dedicated individuals have helped this art form thrive in communities of all backgrounds. By supporting and celebrating Black music, we can teach future generations about its impact and ensure its traditions continue to inspire for years to come."

"The New Jersey Music Educators Association supports Senator Cory Booker's resolution recognizing Black Music Month and honoring the spectacular contributions that Black artists, educators, and communities have made to the musical and cultural life of our nation. These styles of music have helped shape how we teach, perform, create, and connect; from jazz, gospel, pop, and blues to hip-hop, R&B, and many more. As music educators, we recognize the importance of ensuring every student has access to meaningful and inclusive music education that reflects the richness of these traditions and the voices behind them. NJMEA remains committed to celebrating this legacy while empowering the next generation of student musicians, educators, and leaders," said Yale Snyder, President, New Jersey Music Educators Association.

"The Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society proudly supports Senator Cory Booker's 2026 Black Music Month Resolution. Black music is one of America's greatest cultural treasures, serving as a living record of the triumphs, struggles, innovations, and contributions of generations of African Americans. Through Rhythm & Blues, Gospel, Jazz, Blues, Soul, Funk, Hip Hop, and countless other musical expressions, Black artists have shaped the soundtrack of our nation and influenced cultures around the world. We commend Senator Booker for recognizing the enduring importance of preserving, celebrating, and educating future generations about this rich musical legacy," said Mr. Perry 'The Maestro' Thompson, Founder & Executive Director, Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society.

As educators, preservationists, and cultural advocates, we recognize that Black music is more than entertainment. It is history, identity, resistance, innovation, and community. Senator Cory Booker's 2026 Black Music Month Resolution affirms the vital role Black music has played in shaping American culture and provides an important opportunity to ensure these stories are not forgotten. The Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society is honored to support this resolution. It remains committed to preserving Black music culture one record at a time through education, research, community engagement, and historical preservation, " said Rev. Dr. Sonja Elise Freeman, EMBA "Queen Diva", Vice President & Chief Curriculum Officer, Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society.

"The Ohio Music Education Association proudly supports the Black Music Month resolution. Black musicians and composers have profoundly shaped American music through jazz, blues, gospel, hip-hop, R&B, and more. Honoring this legacy means ensuring every Ohio student has access to music education that reflects these contributions and helps them see themselves in the music they study and perform," said Danielle Shaub, President, Ohio Music Education Association.

This resolution is endorsed by the following organizations: American Orff-Schulwerk Association, Cold Narly Generation LLC, Conn Selmer, Feierabend Association for Music Education, Guitar and Accessories Marketing Association, JazzSLAM, League of American Orchestras, Missouri Alliance for Arts Education, Music Education Consultants, Inc.,Music Travel Consultants, Music Will, A. Cuthbertson Consulting,National Association for Music Education, National Association for the Study and Performance of African American Music, NAMM, National Concerts, Ohio Music Education Association, New Jersey Music Educators Association, Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society, Teaching Guitar Workshops and TeachRock.