House Joint Resolution 1552, sponsored by Camper, commemorates the 160th anniversary of the Memphis Massacre of 1866, a significant event during the Reconstruction era following the abolition of slavery. The resolution highlights the brutal attack by a white mob on Black residents in Memphis, which resulted in numerous deaths, injuries, and the destruction of homes, schools, and churches. This violence underscored the vulnerability of newly freed African Americans and drew national attention to the urgent need for legal protections for their civil rights, contributing to the eventual adoption of the Fourteenth Amendment.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of accurately remembering the history of the Memphis Massacre and the broader experiences of African Americans during Reconstruction. It calls for reflection, education, and a renewed commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and civil rights for all citizens. By commemorating this tragic event, the General Assembly aims to honor the memory of those who lost their lives and promote greater civic awareness and unity in society.