# Plain Language Summary: Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act

This bill authorizes Congress to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Shirley Chisholm, a groundbreaking politician who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1969 to 1983. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors that Congress can bestow, typically given to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to American society. It's a symbolic recognition rather than a monetary award—the medal itself becomes a historical artifact, often displayed in museums or institutions that preserve American history.

Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to Congress and ran for president in 1972, making her a pioneering figure in American politics during the Civil Rights era. By awarding her this medal, Congress is formally recognizing her historic achievements and her impact on breaking barriers for women and people of color in government. The medal serves as a permanent tribute to her legacy and contributions to the nation.

This bill doesn't directly affect most Americans' daily lives or government operations. It's primarily a ceremonial action that honors Chisholm's memory and historical significance. The process involves minting a medal and likely holding a ceremony to present it, though the specific details about where the medal will be displayed or how the ceremony will be conducted would be determined separately. It's Congress's way of saying that Chisholm's groundbreaking career and fight for equality deserve to be remembered and celebrated as part of American history.

Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act

Butler, Laphonza R.

Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal ActThis act provides for the posthumous presentation of a Congressional Gold Medal in commemoration of Shirley Chisholm, in recognition of her activism, independence, and groundbreaking achievements in politics, including election as the first African American woman in Congress.The act provides that the gold medal shall be given to and displayed at the&nbsp;Smithsonian Institution.&nbsp;The act also authorizes duplicate medals to be cast in bronze and made available for sale.