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UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS BR 1491
Page 1 of 2
BR149100.100 - 1491 - XXXX 1/6/2026 12:41 PM Jacketed
A RESOLUTION urging the exploration of opportunities to honor and educate the 1
public about great Kentuckians. 2
WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Ke ntucky has produced countless individuals 3
whose contributions have shaped the nation’s history, culture, and progress; and 4
WHEREAS, Muhammad Ali, a world heavyweight champion boxer and 5
humanitarian, exhibited courage and advocacy for peace and justice that transcended 6
sports; and 7
WHEREAS, Georgia Davis Powers broke historic barriers as the first African 8
American and the first woman elected to the Kentucky State Senate, dedicating her life to 9
civil rights and public service; and 10
WHEREAS, Governor Martha Layn e Collins made history as the first, and to date 11
only, woman to serve as Governor of Kentucky, pioneering landmark education reforms, 12
strong economic development, and workforce innovation; and 13
WHEREAS, Louis D. Brandeis became the first Jewish Justice of t he United States 14
Supreme Court and remains a lasting symbol of integrity, intellect, and commitment to 15
justice; and 16
WHEREAS, Loretta Lynn, who rose from humble Appalachian roots to become 17
one of the most influential and beloved voices in American music, br oke barriers for 18
women in the industry and redefined what country music could say; and 19
WHEREAS, John James Audubon, who transformed the study and appreciation of 20
the natural world through his groundbreaking art and ornithology, left a lasting legacy 21
that continues to shape how Americans understand and protect their wildlife; and 22
WHEREAS, these and other Kentuckians reflect the diversity, creativity, and 23
courage that define the spirit of the Commonwealth; and 24
WHEREAS, the education of Kentucky’s youth is enriched when students learn 25
about the lives and legacies of individuals from their own state who have contributed to 26
the arts, sciences, civil rights, law, and public life; and 27
UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS BR 1491
Page 2 of 2
BR149100.100 - 1491 - XXXX 1/6/2026 12:41 PM Jacketed
WHEREAS, exploring the creation of state holidays, commemorative observances, 1
and curricular programs dedicated to great Kentuckians would both celebrate Kentucky’s 2
proud heritage and inspire future generations to leadership and service; 3
NOW, THEREFORE, 4
Be it resolved by the Senate of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of 5
Kentucky: 6
Section 1. The Senate urges appropriate legislative committees, state agencies, 7
and educational authorities to explore opportunities to formally honor and educate the 8
public about the lives and contributions of great Kentuckians. 9
Section 2. The Senate encourages the implementation of strategies to 10
accomplish this goal, including but not limited to the establishment of holidays, 11
observances, and inclusion of appropriate content in Kentucky's school curriculum. 12
Section 3. The Clerk of the Senate is directed to transmit a copy of this 13
Resolution to Dr. Aaron Thompson, president, Council on Postsecondary Education, 100 14
Airport Road, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601; Dr. Robbie Fletcher, commissioner, Kent ucky 15
Department of Education, 300 Sower Boulevard, Frankfort, Kentucky, 40601; Governor 16
Andy Beshear, 703 Capital Avenue, Room 133, Frankfort, Kentucky, 40601; and the 17
President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Senator Cassie 18
Chambers Armstrong. 19