Expressing the sense of Congress that August 30, 2025, be observed as the 135th anniversary of the 1890 Institutions.
This is a non-binding House Resolution expressing the sense of Congress that August 30, 2025, should be observed as the 135th anniversary of the 1890 Institutions, the 19 historically Black land-grant universities established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890. The measure catalogs the history, mission, and collaborative networks of these institutions and their federal support, notes current programs and funding (including a 2025 appropriation of $60 million for scholarships), and calls for broad recognition and celebration at federal and state levels. It also urges stronger partnerships with the Department of Agriculture and other agencies, supports the creation of similar interagency task forces, and commits to bipartisan action to address past inequities in funding and program delivery. In short, the resolution is symbolic and commemorative. It aims to elevate awareness of the 1890 Institutions’ contributions and encourages ongoing federal-state partnerships and equitable support, but it does not itself authorize new funding or create new programs.
Key Points
- 1Expresses that August 30, 2025, should be observed as the 135th anniversary of the 1890 Institutions and recognizes their historical and ongoing contributions to American education, agriculture, and community development.
- 2Provides background on the 1890 Institutions: 19 historically Black land-grant universities (listed with their founding years, ranging from 1866 to 1912) and notes their shared mission in education, agricultural research, and statewide extension services; identifies the Council of 1890 Universities as their leadership body and related networks (1890 Research Directors, Extension Administrators, and the 1890 Institutions Foundation).
- 3Highlights the scope of the institutions’ work and disciplines (agriculture, STEM and related fields, biological/biomedical and social sciences, and related majors), noting substantial student populations and program areas.
- 4Documents federal investments and program supports that accompany the 1890 Institutions, including (a) scholarship programs under the 1977 ARPA Act provisions, (b) centers of excellence recognized under the 1990s Farm Bill language, and (c) the ability to carry over extension funds from the 2018 Farm Bill, along with broader USDA-1890 collaboration.
- 5Encourages ceremonial observances by the Federal Government and States, celebrates collaboration among the 19 universities, supports stronger partnerships between the USDA and the 1890 Institutions, and urges the creation of task forces similar to the USDA-1890 Task Force in other federal agencies.
- 6Affirms a bipartisan commitment to address past funding and program inequities affecting the 1890 Institutions, signaling a political will to improve equity in support and opportunities.