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HCONRES72CongressHouse

Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony as part of the commemoration of the days of remembrance of victims of the Holocaust.

Introduced Feb 2, 20266 cosponsorsCongress.gov

Sponsor

David Kustoff

David Kustoff

Republican · TN-8

Latest Action · Feb 12, 2026

Received in the Senate.

Bill Progress

IntroducedFeb 2
Committee
Pass HouseFeb 11
Pass Senate
Signed
Law

Congress Greenlights Capitol Ceremony For Holocaust Remembrance

Why it matters

This honors Holocaust victims amid continued concerns over antisemitism and ensures Congress remains engaged in public remembrance.

The big picture: The bill authorizes a special ceremony in Emancipation Hall, the Capitol Visitor Center's main public space, to mark the annual Days of Remembrance for Holocaust victims. This is more than just a memorial—it's Congress using its own halls to spotlight the lessons and legacy of the Holocaust.

Zoom in: The move comes at a time when antisemitism and discussions around historical memory are hot topics in U.S. society. By choosing a prominent venue like Emancipation Hall, the ceremony is positioned to draw attention from lawmakers, educators, and the media. The Architect of the Capitol will oversee all preparations, ensuring the event fits the House’s standards and security.

Between the lines: Approving Capitol space for such events is a time-honored tradition, but it always signals what issues Congress wants to elevate. With hate crimes and misinformation still making headlines, this event lets Congress show visible support for remembrance, education, and unity. The bipartisan support (six cosponsors) signals that commemoration of Holocaust victims is still a unifying issue across party lines.

What This Bill Does

1

Capitol Venue Authorization

Allows Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center to be used for a Holocaust remembrance ceremony.

2

Specific Event Date

Sets the ceremony for April 14, 2026.

3

Scope of Ceremony

Specifies the ceremony is part of the Days of Remembrance for Holocaust victims.

4

Preparation Oversight

Requires that preparations follow rules set by the Architect of the Capitol.

5

Legislative Approval

Represents formal approval by both the House and Senate.

Who Benefits

Holocaust Survivors and Families

They receive public recognition and support for the memory of their experiences and for the victims.

Jewish American Community

The ceremony demonstrates solidarity, visibility, and support from the nation’s lawmakers.

Educators and Students

Provides a high-profile moment to promote Holocaust education and awareness.

General Public

Offers an opportunity to reflect on history and reinforce lessons about tolerance and human rights.

Who's Affected

Capitol Staff and Security

They are responsible for logistics and maintaining security during the event.

Members of Congress

They participate and visibly associate themselves with Holocaust remembrance efforts.

Event Attendees

They gain access to a high-profile ceremony emphasizing remembrance and education.

Architect of the Capitol

Handles planning, setup, and enforcement of rules for using Emancipation Hall.

Cosponsors (6)

Recent Actions

Feb 12, 2026

Received in the Senate.

Feb 11, 2026

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Feb 11, 2026

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection. (text: CR H2172)

Feb 11, 2026

Passed/agreed to in House: On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Feb 11, 2026

Considered by unanimous consent. (consideration: CR H2172)

Feb 11, 2026

Committee on House Administration discharged.

Feb 11, 2026

Committee on House Administration discharged.

Feb 11, 2026

Mrs. Miller (IL) asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.

Committees (1)

Committee on House Administration

Joint · Standing

Discharged From · Feb 11, 2026

View committee

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News Coverage

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Full Bill Text

View the complete legislative text on Congress.gov

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Source: Congress.gov

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