Bill Summary
The "Congressional Quilt Show Resolution of 2026" is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing an annual showcase to honor and recognize the craftsmanship of American quilters. The resolution emphasizes the historical significance of quilting in American culture, particularly the role of women and girls in preserving this craft over the past 250 years. It highlights the importance of quilting as a blend of beauty and functionality, contributing to community building and cultural pride.
Key provisions of the resolution include:
1. **Establishment of the Quilt Show**: A congressional quilting showcase will be created, with participation determined by a lottery among eligible constituents in each congressional district.
2. **Regulations and Display**: The event will adhere to regulations set by the Committee on House Administration, and the quilts will be displayed outside the offices of members of the House of Representatives.
3. **Eligibility Criteria**: To participate, individuals must be recognized quilters, having won a ribbon at a county fair or received similar honors within their congressional district.
Overall, this resolution seeks to celebrate the skill, artistry, and cultural importance of quilting in the United States while fostering a deeper appreciation for this craft among legislators and the public.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the Congressional Quilt Show Resolution could affect people:
1. **Recognition and Empowerment of Quilters**: The establishment of the Congressional Quilt Show would provide a platform for quilters, especially those who have won ribbons or received recognition at local fairs. This recognition can empower individuals, particularly women and girls, by validating their skills and creativity. It fosters a sense of pride in their craft and encourages them to continue honing their skills and contributing to their communities.
2. **Cultural and Community Engagement**: The resolution aims to foster a deeper appreciation for quilting as an important cultural and historical practice in America. By encouraging participation from Members of Congress and their constituents, it promotes community engagement and dialogue around the significance of quilting. This could lead to increased participation in quilting events or local crafts, helping to strengthen community ties and cultural heritage.
3. **Economic Opportunities for Local Quilters**: By raising awareness and appreciation for quilting through the Congressional Quilt Show, it could create economic opportunities for local quilters. This might include increased sales of quilts and quilting supplies, workshops, or classes offered by skilled quilters. Additionally, local quilt shops may see a boost in business as more people become interested in quilting, thus benefiting the local economy.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 1161 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. RES. 1161
Expressing support for the establishment of a Congressional Quilt Show
to recognize and honor American quilters and their craftsmanship in the
Nation for over 250 years.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
April 9, 2026
Ms. Perez (for herself, Mr. Moran, and Ms. Van Duyne) submitted the
following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on House
Administration
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
Expressing support for the establishment of a Congressional Quilt Show
to recognize and honor American quilters and their craftsmanship in the
Nation for over 250 years.
Resolved,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This resolution may be cited as the ``Congressional Quilt Show
Resolution of 2026''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The House of Representatives finds the following:
(1) The American quilting community are persistent, inter-
generational stewards of craft, memory, and skill in our
Nation.
(2) Since before the Nation's founding, the rigor and joy
of quilting and needlework have ushered Americans,
predominantly women and girls, to learn the muscle and union of
beauty and function and embody the utility and necessity of
visual and mathematical intelligence.
(3) Congressional investment will aid American quilters in
their work to uphold high standards of skill and ingenuity, and
build community across the country.
(4) It is the intent of the House of Representatives to
celebrate the important role American quilters play is keeping
our Nation warm, sharp, self-sufficient, and generous.
(5) Bringing together Members of Congress and their
constituents to participate in activities that will result in a
deeper appreciation for quilting will foster cultural pride and
affirm the value of craftsmanship as a national asset.
SEC. 3. CONGRESSIONAL QUILT SHOW.
(a) Establishment of Showcase.--There is hereby established a
congressional quilting showcase, which shall be administered by lottery
and held each year among eligible constituents in each congressional
district.
(b) Regulations.--The showcase under this resolution shall be
carried out in accordance with such regulations as may be prescribed by
the Committee on House Administration.
(c) Display.--The Architect of the Capitol shall display each quilt
outside the respective congressional office in the House of
Representatives.
(d) Eligible Constituent Defined.--In this section, the term
``eligible constituent'' means an individual who has won a ribbon from
a county fair, or received similar recognition, within their respective
congressional district.
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