Press Release: Norton Introduces Resolution Recognizing D.C. Servicemembers and Veterans in Advance of Memorial Day

Press Release — DC Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton

May 26, 2022

Contact: Sharon Eliza Nichols

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced a resolution in advance of Memorial Day recognizing District of Columbia servicemembers and veterans. The resolution also calls for statehood for the District to ensure these servicemembers and veterans enjoy the full rights of American democracy. D.C. residents have served in every war since the Revolutionary War, all without the full and equal rights that can come only with statehood.

“Memorial Day recognizes servicemembers who have died in service to our nation,” Norton said. “However, it is especially timely this year to recognize District of Columbia servicemembers and veterans, whose equal service has never come with the equal benefits of American democracy.”

On April 22, 2021, the House passed Norton’s D.C. statehood bill (H.R. 51), which was only the second time in history a chamber had passed the D.C. statehood bill. The first was when the House passed Norton’s bill on June 26, 2020. The Senate companion bill (S. 51) has a record 45 cosponsors. Last year, the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs held the second-ever Senate hearing on D.C. statehood. The Biden administration has strongly endorsed the D.C. statehood bill.