National Trust for Historic Preservation and Trust for Public Land Applaud Introduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize the African American Civil Rights Network

The National Trust for Historic Preservation and Trust for Public Land applaud the introduction of the Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act (H.R.9269 /S.4767), proposed federal legislation that will reauthorize the African American Civil Rights Network (AACRN). This bipartisan and bicameral effort, led by Congressman Jim Clyburn (D-SC), Congressman Mike Carey (R-OH), Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), will enable the continued operation of the national network of sites, activities and research that commemorate, honor and interpret the history of the modern Civil Rights Movement.

First established through bipartisan legislation in 2018, the African American Civil Rights Network is a National Park Service program that links together more than 130 National Park units, non-federal historic sites, and research programs relating to the African American Civil Rights Movement. The AACRN connects these interrelated sites under the NPS banner to facilitate peer learning, increase public awareness, and allow the members to compete for certain grants. It was originally authorized on a seven-year basis that lapsed in January 2025.

"The National Trust for Historic Preservation's Action Fund and its partners are proud to stand in solidarity with organizations across the African American Civil Rights Network (AACRN) in affirming that sustained support for this National Park Service program is critical to preserving a powerful and uniquely American legacy for future generations. The AACRN is a vital network of preservation partners committed to telling the full story of America's civil rights journey," said Brent Leggs, executive director of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund and strategic advisor to the CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "We applaud the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Jim Clyburn (D-SC) and Mike Carey (R-OH) and Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) and Tim Scott (R-SC) in sponsoring this critical legislation, and we urge Congress to reauthorize the AACRN program to enable continued advancement of its mission."

"Trust for Public Land applauds Congressman Jim Clyburn, Congressman Mike Carey, Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, and Senator Tim Scott for their outstanding leadership and diligent efforts to connect Americans to our shared history, as evidenced today through the introduction of the Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act," said Dr. Jocelyn Imani, Director of Black History and Culture at Trust for Public Land. "This legislation will enable the continuation of this vital National Park Service program, linking together the people, places, and moments from the African American Civil Rights Movement and preserving and sharing this monumental chapter of our nation's history. As we reflect on the enduring pursuit of those self-evident truths first penned in our Declaration of Independence 250 years ago, we urge Congress to advance and pass this important legislation."

AACRN is a collection of properties, facilities, and programs that collectively tell the story of the modern Civil Rights Movement and the people who fought to advance equality and justice in America. Through preservation, commemoration, interpretation, and education, the Network provides a comprehensive overview of the people, places, and events associated with the movement, helping ensure that the sacrifices and achievements of civil rights leaders, activists, and communities are remembered and shared with future generations.

Network members include historic properties where significant events occurred or where influential leaders lived and worked; facilities such as museums, libraries, archives, and interpretive centers dedicated to preserving Civil Rights Movement history; and educational programs, tours, performances, curricula, and other initiatives that help bring these stories to life. Together, these resources create a nationwide network that connects Americans with the history of one of the nation's most transformative movements.

For decades, the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Trust for Public Land have both worked to tell the full American story by preserving historic sites that reflect the struggle for African-American equality. Through partnerships with local communities, preservation advocates, Tribal Nations, historians, and civic leaders, these efforts are safeguarding irreplaceable landmarks for future generations and helping to better illuminate a complex part of the nation's history.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation and Trust for Public Land join preservation organizations, educators, community leaders, and members of the African American Civil Rights Network in encouraging Congress to swiftly pass the Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act. Reauthorization will ensure the continued preservation, interpretation, and sharing of the stories of courage, sacrifice, and collective action that helped move the nation closer to its founding ideals.