WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) on Wednesday 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 Gonzales and Filemon Vela (D-TX-34), 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,” said Congressman Gonzales. “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 Gonzales and Vela 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).