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U.S. Rep. John Katko (R, NY-24) today announced the passage of the Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation honoring the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman with the creation of a series of commemorative coins bearing her image.
Last year, Rep. Katko introduced this bill alongside U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D, NY-5). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Rob Portman (R-OH). This legislation received prior approval from the U.S. Senate and will now go to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
Yesterday evening Rep. Katko spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in support of this legislation, and what it means for the Central New York community. Watch Rep. Katko’s remarks on the House Floor in support of this legislation here.
The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act directs the Department of the Treasury to mint and issue $5 gold coins, $1 silver coins, and half dollar clad coins bearing Tubman’s image and emblematic of her legacy, all of which would be legal tender. All surcharges received by the Treasury will be paid equally to the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, New York and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Proceeds from the coin will benefit historic preservation and public education efforts at the Tubman Home, advancing their ability to welcome guests and pay tribute to Tubman’s legacy.
“I am incredibly excited to announce the passage of the Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act,” said Rep. Katko. “After escaping slavery and becoming a conductor on the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman resided in Auburn, New York for several years. Her former home, which is now a National Historic Park, has become a cherished site in Central New York and helps educate the public on Tubman’s life. Since my first day in office, it has been an honor and a privilege to partner with the Tubman Home and work with them to honor the legacy of Harriet Tubman. The passage of this historic legislation will further these efforts, while also helping the Tubman Home carry out its important mission. I am eager to see this legislation signed into law and to get my very own Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Coin.”
“The passage of the Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act is a historic moment and represents a fitting tribute to a great woman of valor and patriotism who, despite being born into slavery, cared deeply for the well-being of humankind," said Karen V. Hill, President & CEO of Harriet Tubman Home, Inc. "I applaud Rep. Katko for sponsoring and advancing this legislation, which will help ensure that the Harriet Tubman Home will be able to continue its mission of protecting and preserving the homestead of Harriet Tubman, known as the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park.”
Since being elected to Congress, Rep. Katko has lead numerous efforts to honor Harriet Tubman’s legacy. Along with the late U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings, Rep. Katko began a years-long effort to place Harriet Tubman’s likeness on the $20 bill in 2015. Additionally, Rep. Katko played an important role in ensuring a smooth transition in the designation of Harriet Tubman’s former home in Auburn, New York as a national park.
