Bill Overview
Title: To amend title 36, United States Code, to establish the composition known as "Lift Every Voice and Sing" as the national hymn of the United States.
Description: This bill designates the composition consisting of the words and music known as Lift Every Voice and Sing as the national hymn of the United States.
Sponsors: Rep. Clyburn, James E. [D-SC-6]
Target Audience
Population: People for whom national symbols impact cultural identity
Estimated Size: 333000000
- The national hymn will affect all US citizens as it becomes an official symbol alongside other national symbols like the national anthem.
- 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' is a significant cultural and historical piece particularly within African American communities.
- The designation is largely symbolic, meaning while it impacts cultural and national identity, it does not have tangible effects on daily life.
- Approximately 333 million people live in the United States, all of whom are impacted in terms of national identity.
Reasoning
- The policy is largely symbolic, involving the designation of a national hymn, which means it doesn't have immediate material effects or require extensive rollout infrastructure, making the budget primarily for promotional and educational purposes.
- Effects of a symbolic policy will be varied based in large part on individual personal identification with national symbols, which differs across different demographic groups.
- Since the policy concerns a hymn with significant cultural ties to African American history, individuals from this community are likely to express stronger opinions, both positive and negative, depending on their personal connections to the song.
- The budget might be used for events, educational campaigns, and publications to increase awareness and integrate the hymn into American culture, especially in educational settings.
Simulated Interviews
High School Teacher (Alabama)
Age: 45 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 7
Duration of Impact: 10.0 years
Commonness: 10/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I think it’s wonderful. 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' is a crucial part of our history.
- This might open up more conversation in classes about historical roots and the importance of diverse cultural symbols.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 2 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 7 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 7 |
Software Engineer (California)
Age: 28 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 6
Duration of Impact: 5.0 years
Commonness: 15/20
Statement of Opinion:
- It’s just another symbol to me, like the anthem or the flag.
- I guess it’s cool if people feel more included, but it doesn't really change much for me.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 3 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 5 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 10 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 20 | 6 | 6 |
Retired Librarian (Illinois)
Age: 62 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 8
Duration of Impact: 10.0 years
Commonness: 13/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I admire the recognition of African American history through this hymn.
- I hope this encourages more such inclusive policies.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 2 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 5 | 9 | 8 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 8 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 8 |
Journalist (New York)
Age: 39 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 6
Duration of Impact: 3.0 years
Commonness: 12/20
Statement of Opinion:
- The official designation is more about symbolism than practical impact.
- It will be interesting to see if this brings about any deeper societal change.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 2 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 3 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 5 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 10 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 20 | 6 | 6 |
College Student (Texas)
Age: 24 | Gender: other
Wellbeing Before Policy: 7
Duration of Impact: 10.0 years
Commonness: 9/20
Statement of Opinion:
- This is a powerful move towards more recognition of African American heritage.
- I feel like more people will explore this part of history now.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 2 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 7 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 7 |
| Year 20 | 9 | 7 |
Pastor (Georgia)
Age: 53 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 8
Duration of Impact: 20.0 years
Commonness: 8/20
Statement of Opinion:
- This hymn is an important part of our church and community activities already.
- I see it as recognition of our culture and history.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 8 | 8 |
| Year 2 | 9 | 8 |
| Year 3 | 9 | 8 |
| Year 5 | 9 | 8 |
| Year 10 | 10 | 8 |
| Year 20 | 10 | 8 |
Public Relations Specialist (Michigan)
Age: 31 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 6
Duration of Impact: 5.0 years
Commonness: 10/20
Statement of Opinion:
- I think it adds to the cultural diversity we should be promoting.
- Companies might tie into this to show solidarity with diversity initiatives.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 3 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 5 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 10 | 6 | 6 |
| Year 20 | 6 | 6 |
Construction Worker (Florida)
Age: 50 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 5
Duration of Impact: 0.0 years
Commonness: 14/20
Statement of Opinion:
- Honestly, I don't see how this affects me.
- Maybe it matters more to folks who feel connected to the song.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 5 | 5 |
| Year 2 | 5 | 5 |
| Year 3 | 5 | 5 |
| Year 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Year 10 | 5 | 5 |
| Year 20 | 5 | 5 |
Policy Analyst (Washington)
Age: 37 | Gender: female
Wellbeing Before Policy: 7
Duration of Impact: 5.0 years
Commonness: 11/20
Statement of Opinion:
- Symbolically, it’s a step forward for inclusivity.
- It doesn't change policy structures, but it can influence cultural perception.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 2 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 3 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 5 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 10 | 7 | 7 |
| Year 20 | 7 | 7 |
App Developer (Oregon)
Age: 29 | Gender: male
Wellbeing Before Policy: 6
Duration of Impact: 10.0 years
Commonness: 12/20
Statement of Opinion:
- It's more than a song; it's part of our identity.
- Recognition like this feels like a win for us.
Wellbeing Over Time (With vs Without Policy)
| Year | With Policy | Without Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 7 | 6 |
| Year 2 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 3 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 5 | 8 | 6 |
| Year 10 | 9 | 6 |
| Year 20 | 8 | 6 |
Cost Estimates
Year 1: $500000 (Low: $100000, High: $1000000)
Year 2: $0 (Low: $0, High: $500000)
Year 3: $0 (Low: $0, High: $500000)
Year 5: $0 (Low: $0, High: $500000)
Year 10: $0 (Low: $0, High: $500000)
Year 100: $0 (Low: $0, High: $500000)
Key Considerations
- The bill's main impact is symbolic and cultural, enhancing national unity and celebrating African American history.
- Minimal cost impacts are associated with updating public information and educational materials.