Edward J. Dwight, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025
Edward J. Dwight, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025
Plain Language Summary
# Edward J. Dwight, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025 This bill would award a Congressional Gold Medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr., recognizing him as the first African American astronaut candidate in the United States.
The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors Congress can bestow. The bill honors Dwight for his historic role in the space program during a time of significant racial discrimination, as well as his later contributions to art and Black history. The bill affects no one directly in practical terms—it is ceremonial in nature. However, it would formally recognize Dwight's historical significance and contributions to American civil rights and space exploration. The legislation is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
CRS Official Summary
Edward J. Dwight, Jr., Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025This bill provides for the award of a Congressional Gold Medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr., the first African American astronaut candidate in the United States, in recognition of his historic service to the United States, his example of excellence during times of struggle and overt racism, and his contributions in art and Black history.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.