Brown Files Resolution Recognizing June as Black Music Month

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11), co-chair of the Congressional Rock and Roll Caucus, has introduced a resolution to recognize June as Black Music Month. This resolution highlights how Black musical artistry has influenced and shaped American history and calls on Americans to support Black artists and programs that elevate their work, encourage diversity, and expand access to music and art education. Text of the resolution is available here.

Congresswoman Brown’s resolution is co-led by Congressman André Carson (IN-07), and Congressman Gregory Meeks (NY-05), and is being introduced in the Senate by Senator Cory Booker (NJ-02). The resolution has 29 original cosponsors.

“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 the 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.

“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.”

“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.” Congressman Meeks said. “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 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.

“The New Jersey Music Educators Association supports Senator Booker’s resolution recognizing Black Music Month and honoring the spectacular contributions of Black artists, educators, and communities to our nation’s musical heritage. From jazz and gospel to hip-hop, R&B, and beyond, these styles continue to shape how we teach, perform, create, and connect. NJMEA remains committed to ensuring all students have access to inclusive music education that reflects these rich legacies and voices while inspiring the next generation of musicians, educators, and leaders.” — Yale Snyder, President, New Jersey Music Educators Association

The House and Senate resolutions are endorsed by the following:

A Cuthbertson Consulting, 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, 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 the TeachRock.

In addition to Brown, Meeks, and Carson, the resolution is cosponsored by Rep. Rashida Tlaib, Rep. Maxwell Frost, Rep. Danny K. Davis, Rep. Robin L. Kelly, Rep. Wesley Bell, Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, Rep. LaMonica McIver, Rep. Troy A. Carter Sr, Rep. Valerie Foushee, Rep. Joyce Beatty, Rep. Jahana Hayes, Rep. Jonathan L. Jackson, Rep. Haley Stevens, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Rep. Dwight Evans, Rep. Kweisi Mfume, Rep. Ilhan Omar, Rep. Henry C. "Hank" Johnson, Jr., Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, Rep. Shomari Figures, Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, Rep. Delia C. Ramirez, Rep. Mark Pocan, Rep. Lateefah Simon, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson, Rep. Lucy McBath, and Rep. Nikema Williams. 

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