Bill Summary
This resolution expresses support for designating February 12, 2019 as "Darwin Day" and recognizing the importance of science in improving humanity. It acknowledges Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection and the scientific evidence that supports it, as well as the modern understanding of genetics. It also highlights the role of human curiosity and ingenuity in promoting scientific discoveries and solving problems. The resolution aims to protect the advancement of science from those who do not acknowledge the impact of global warming and climate change, and it opposes the teaching of creationism in public schools. It proposes using Charles Darwin as a symbol to unite people around the world in celebrating science and humanity, and designating February 12 as "Darwin Day" in honor of his birth in 1809. The resolution ultimately seeks to support the achievements of reason, science, and human knowledge.
Possible Impacts
1. The legislation could potentially affect those who believe in creationism, as it specifically mentions the teaching of creationism in public schools.
2. The legislation could also affect scientists and educators, as it recognizes the importance of science and the advancements it has brought to humanity.
3. The legislation could also impact the general public, as it promotes unity and celebration of science and human knowledge.
[Congressional Bills 116th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 123 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
116th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. RES. 123
Expressing support for designation of February 12, 2019, as ``Darwin
Day'' and recognizing the importance of science in the betterment of
humanity.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
February 11, 2019
Mr. Himes (for himself, Ms. Norton, Mr. Quigley, Mr. Lowenthal, Mr.
Huffman, Mr. McEachin, Mr. Schiff, Mr. Lawson of Florida, Ms.
Schakowsky, Mr. McNerney, Mr. Cohen, Mr. Pocan, Mr. Foster, Mr. Raskin,
Mr. Kilmer, Ms. Titus, Ms. Lofgren, and Mr. Suozzi) submitted the
following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Science,
Space, and Technology
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
Expressing support for designation of February 12, 2019, as ``Darwin
Day'' and recognizing the importance of science in the betterment of
humanity.
Whereas Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by the mechanism of natural
selection, together with the monumental amount of scientific evidence he
compiled to support it, provides humanity with a logical and
intellectually compelling explanation for the diversity of life on
Earth;
Whereas the validity of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection is
further strongly supported by the modern understanding of the science of
genetics;
Whereas it has been the human curiosity and ingenuity exemplified by Darwin that
has promoted new scientific discoveries that have helped humanity solve
many problems and improve living conditions;
Whereas the advancement of science must be protected from those unconcerned with
the adverse impacts of global warming and climate change;
Whereas the teaching of creationism in some public schools compromises the
scientific and academic integrity of the United States education
systems;
Whereas Charles Darwin is a worthy symbol of scientific advancement on which to
focus and around which to build a global celebration of science and
humanity intended to promote a common bond among all of Earth's peoples;
and
Whereas February 12, 2019, is the anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin in
1809 and would be an appropriate date to designate as ``Darwin Day'':
Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) supports the designation of ``Darwin Day''; and
(2) recognizes Charles Darwin as a worthy symbol on which
to celebrate the achievements of reason, science, and the
advancement of human knowledge.
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