Parkinson commemorates Brown v. Board with signing

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

To uphold the historic implications of the Brown v. Board of Education decision made 56 years ago, Governor Parkinson signed SB 54 today. The governor was joined by state legislators and members of the Kansas NAACP at the bill signing in the Governor's Ceremonial Office.

"Brown v. Board remains at the cornerstone of the Kansas story, reminding us of where we first began and how far we have come," Parkinson said. "In joining the likes of John Stuart Curry and his Tragic Prelude, the mural will allow future generations to look back and become inspired by our state's remarkable history."

SB 54 creates the Capitol Preservation Committee, which is required to develop plans for the placement of a mural in the State Capitol commemorating the United States Supreme Court Decision in the case of Brown V. Board of Education. The bill also prohibits public funds from being used to pay the costs of creating and installing the mural.

The committee will consist of 12 members: the statehouse architect, the executive director of the State Historical Society, the executive director of the Kansas Arts Commission, three members appointed by the Governor, two members appointed by the President of the Senate, one member appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate, two members appointed by the Speaker of the House, and one member appointed by the Minority Leader of the House.

The Capitol Preservation Committee will be required to meet at least annually, but no more than four meetings shall be called in any year. Their responsibilities include:

* Approving all proposals for renovations of all areas of the State Capitol, the Capitol Visitor Center, and the grounds surrounding the State Capitol, after January 1, 2013;

* Preserve the proper décor of such areas;

* Assure that any art or artistic displays are historically accurate and have historic significance;

* Determine the location and types of temporary displays and revolving displays in the State Capitol including the Capitol's Visitor Center; and

* Oversee the reconfiguration or redecoration of committee rooms within the State Capitol.

The bill takes effect upon its publication in the Kansas Statute Book.