The House concurrent resolution No. R-82 commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Black Music Division at Bennington College, recognizing its significant role in establishing Black music as a legitimate field of academic study. The resolution highlights the contributions of key figures, including a pioneering educator and composer who played a crucial role in the division's founding, as well as the influential percussionist Milford Graves, who was a prominent faculty member for nearly four decades. The mission of the Black Music Division has been to explore and legitimize the cultural significance of Black music within the academic sphere, a commitment that continues with the current faculty.

To celebrate this milestone, the Black Music Division, in collaboration with Bennington College alumni, is organizing a two-day event featuring live performances, lectures, panels, and workshops that will reflect on the historical and transformative impact of Black music on education and culture. The resolution calls for the General Assembly to officially commemorate this anniversary and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to the Black Music Division at Bennington College.