# What This Bill Actually Does

This is a symbolic resolution that asks the House of Representatives to officially recognize November 8 as "National First-Generation College Celebration Day." It's not a law that changes anything or creates new programs—it's basically Congress saying "we support celebrating first-generation college students on this date." The date was chosen because November 8, 1965, is when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Higher Education Act, which created major financial aid programs like Pell Grants that help low-income and first-generation students afford college.

A first-generation college student is someone whose parents didn't complete a four-year college degree. According to the bill, these students make up a huge portion of college enrollment—56 percent of bachelor's degree students and one-third of community college students. The resolution highlights that first-generation students often face tougher challenges than other students, including financial strain, working while in school (66 percent have jobs), and caring for dependents (30 percent have kids or family members to support).

The bill essentially encourages schools, businesses, nonprofits, and communities to use November 8 as a day to recognize and celebrate first-generation college students and the programs that help them succeed. It's meant to raise awareness about these students' accomplishments and the importance of keeping financial aid programs like Pell Grants available. While this resolution doesn't directly change any policies or funding, it's a way for Congress to publicly acknowledge that first-generation students are an important part of the college-going population and deserve recognition for overcoming additional obstacles to get their degrees.

Expressing support for the designation of November 8, 2023, as "National First-Generation College Celebration Day".

Moore, Gwen

 <p>This resolution urges all people in the United States to celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Day.</p>