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.
Sponsor
David Kustoff
Republican · TN-8
Latest Action · Feb 12, 2026
Received in the Senate.
Bill Progress
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
Capitol Venue Authorization
Allows Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center to be used for a Holocaust remembrance ceremony.
Specific Event Date
Sets the ceremony for April 14, 2026.
Scope of Ceremony
Specifies the ceremony is part of the Days of Remembrance for Holocaust victims.
Preparation Oversight
Requires that preparations follow rules set by the Architect of the Capitol.
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
Received in the Senate.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection. (text: CR H2172)
Passed/agreed to in House: On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.
Considered by unanimous consent. (consideration: CR H2172)
Committee on House Administration discharged.
Committee on House Administration discharged.
Mrs. Miller (IL) asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.
Committees (1)
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Full Bill Text
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Source: Congress.gov