SENATE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING FEBRUARY 11, 2025, AS "THE 2ND RHODE ISLAND REGIMENT/BLACK REGIMENT RECOGNITION DAY" TO COMMEMORATE THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACK SOLDIERS DURING THE AMERICAN REVOLUTIONARY WAR

This Senate Resolution (SR 224) designates February 11, 2025, as "The 2nd Rhode Island Regiment/Black Regiment Recognition Day" to honor Black soldiers who served in the integrated 1st Rhode Island Regiment during the Revolutionary War. It directly recognizes the contributions of these soldiers - many formerly enslaved - who fought for American independence and their valor at the 1778 Battle of Portsmouth. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to share certified copies with state officials, historical organizations, and the Newport County NAACP to promote public awareness of this history. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create new laws or affect policy but formally acknowledges a historical contribution.