The Georgia Senate approved a measure that would create a commission to study the creation of the state’s first public museum dedicated to African-American history.
State Sen. Lester Jackson, D-Savannah, said the 20-member commission would study how best to collect and display the state's rich black history.
There are specialized museums, such as the Center for Civil and Human Rights, and private museums, including the Apex Museum, but none that tell the full history of African Americans in Georgia.
Senate Bill 411 would task the commission with creating a recommendation on how best to create a Museum of Georgia African-American History and Culture, including its location and a plan for fundraising efforts.
The chamber also is considering Senate Resolution 503, which would create a Senate study committee to do similar work of the commission.
Jackson said if a museum is built, he believes it will draw visitors from not only Georgia, but across the country.
The measure now goes to the House for its consideration.
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