Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to honor John Francis Wheaton, the first African American elected to the Minnesota legislature, by establishing a permanent commemorative work in his honor at the State Capitol grounds. This initiative seeks to acknowledge his contributions to civil rights, racial justice, and public service in Minnesota and to inspire future generations.

Main Provisions

1. Commemorative Work Design and Installation:

   • The Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board will oversee the design process for a commemorative work honoring Wheaton.
   • There will be a public call for artists, ensuring that the design reflects Wheaton's historical significance with input from community leaders, civil rights organizations, historians, and representatives of Wheaton’s descendants or the African American community.
   • An annual progress report on the project's status and community engagement will be provided to the legislature.

2. Educational and Cultural Initiatives:

   • Development of educational materials about Wheaton for inclusion in Minnesota's primary and secondary school curricula.
   • The Minnesota Historical Society, together with African American cultural organizations, will create programming like lectures and panel discussions, as well as establish an annual J. Frank Wheaton Legacy Day to promote civic engagement.

3. Formal Dedication Ceremony:

   • Once the commemorative work is completed, a dedication ceremony at the Minnesota State Capitol will take place, inviting key figures and the public to participate in honoring Wheaton’s legacy.

4. Appropriation of Funds:

   • Funds are appropriated for the fiscal year 2026 to support the design and installation of the commemorative work, as well as educational and cultural initiatives, with availability until June 30, 2028.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill establishes new requirements for the creation of commemorative works and educational curriculum changes specifically recognizing an individual’s contributions, which adds a structured process for public and cultural recognition within the state government framework.

Relevant Terms

John Francis Wheaton, African American, Minnesota legislature, civil rights, commemorative work, State Capitol, racial justice, historical significance, educational curriculum, cultural programs, legacy day, dedication ceremony, appropriation.