Memorial and Museum Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act.

This bill would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide a one-time grant to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, as the chairman just mentioned, if future legislation authorizes such activity and if future legislation appropriates such funds.

This museum and memorial is the principal tribute of remembrance and honor for the nearly 3,000 people killed on 9/11. Over the years, Congress has provided significant financial support for the site and recognized it as the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

Though I rise today in support, I would like to highlight that the 9/ 11 museum has faced criticism since its opening related to some terminologies used in some of the exhibits. Organizations such as the Muslim Community Network and a coalition of prominent academics have raised concerns that the terminology used for Islamic extremism and terrorism is sometimes generalized, improperly defined, and excludes necessary context. In response, these groups have requested that an interfaith advisory council be established for the memorial and museum to increase inclusive representation, content review, and educational initiatives.

I acknowledge and deeply understand the significance and importance of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. It is a site for remembrance and mourning. Members of the House Natural Resources Committee will continue to support the ongoing management needs of the museum, but we encourage the museum's management to engage with stakeholders to develop an interfaith advisory council to ensure that the site is welcoming and representative of all.

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Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, we support this legislation. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes,'' and I yield back the balance of my time.

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