Congressman Tony Gonzales Applauds Committee Passage of Blackwell School Bill

On Wednesday I released the following statement after the House Natural Resources Committee passed the Blackwell School National Historic Site Act out of committee and to the House floor for a vote. This legislation, introduced by Congressmen Filemon Vela (D-TX-34) and I, would establish the Blackwell School in Marfa, Texas as a National Historic Site (NHS) under the National Park Service.

“I am thrilled to see the House take this critical step towards giving the Blackwell School the proper recognition it deserves,” I said. “Preserving the building ensures that future generations are able to learn the story and understand the rich, complicated history behind it. I appreciate Chairman Grijalva and Ranking Member Westerman for prioritizing this important landmark in west Texas.”

Background

• Congressmen Vela and I introduced the Blackwell School National Historic Site Act (H.R. 4706) in July.
• The Blackwell School operated from 1909 – 1965 and served as a school for children of Mexican descent. The building is a tangible reminder of a time in American history where “separate but equal” dominated our culture.
• A companion bill in the U.S. Senate was introduced by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Alex Padilla (D-CA).