Bill Summary
This resolution expresses strong support for naming a class of United States Navy ships, specifically the John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oilers, after notable civil rights leaders. It highlights the importance of honoring these leaders, including John Lewis, Harvey Milk, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, among others, who have significantly contributed to civil rights and equality in the United States. The resolution calls on the Department of Defense to maintain these names and not to change them, emphasizing the value of recognizing the legacy of civil rights figures through the naming of military vessels.
Possible Impacts
The resolution to name United States Navy ships after notable civil rights leaders can have several effects on people. Here are three examples:
1. **Recognition and Inspiration**: Naming Navy ships after civil rights leaders like John Lewis and Sojourner Truth serves to honor their legacies and contributions to the fight for equality. This recognition can inspire individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, by highlighting the importance of civil rights activism. It reinforces the idea that their efforts are valued and remembered, potentially motivating future generations to engage in social justice and advocacy.
2. **Cultural Education and Awareness**: The naming of ships after prominent figures in the civil rights movement can serve as a platform for education about their contributions and the broader civil rights struggle. This may lead to increased public awareness and dialogue regarding civil rights issues, fostering a greater understanding of the history and ongoing challenges related to equality and justice in the United States.
3. **Military and Community Relations**: The resolution can positively impact the relationship between the military and diverse communities. By honoring civil rights leaders, the Navy demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion, which may enhance its image and foster goodwill among communities that have historically felt marginalized. This can lead to improved recruitment efforts and stronger ties between the military and the communities it serves, as well as promoting a sense of pride among service members who identify with or are inspired by the leaders being honored.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. Res. 264 Introduced in Senate (IS)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. RES. 264
To support the naming of certain United States Navy ships after notable
civil rights leaders and to strongly encourage the Department of
Defense not to change the names of such ships.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
June 5, 2025
Mr. Schiff (for himself and Mr. Padilla) submitted the following
resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Armed Services
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
To support the naming of certain United States Navy ships after notable
civil rights leaders and to strongly encourage the Department of
Defense not to change the names of such ships.
Whereas the John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oilers serve a vital role in
replenishing fuel to United States Navy ships and aircraft assigned to
aircraft carriers;
Whereas naming the class of ship and the first of its members after former
United States Congressman John Lewis is a befitting tribute to a true
United States civil rights icon;
Whereas the other ships in the class, including ships that are still under
construction or are not yet constructed, have been named after other
civil rights luminaries, including Harvey Milk, Earl Warren, Robert F.
Kennedy, Lucy Stone, Sojourner Truth, Thurgood Marshall, Ruth Bader
Ginsburg, Harriet Tubman, Dolores Huerta, Joshua L. Goldberg, and Thomas
D. Parham; and
Whereas, by naming these ships, the United States Navy has appropriately
celebrated notable civil rights leaders and their legacy in promoting a
more equal and just United States: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate--
(1) strongly supports the naming of John Lewis-class fleet
replacement oilers after the aforementioned civil rights
leaders as a fitting tribute to honor their contributions to
the advancement of civil rights; and
(2) strongly encourages the Department of Defense not to
take any action to change the names of any of the ships
referred to in paragraph (1).
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