Washington, DC— Congressman John Conyers, Jr.  (D-MI) has introduced H.R. 2823, the “National Jazz Preservation and Education Act of 2011.”  The Act will make needed investments that will allow for the preservation of artifacts that document our country’s jazz legacy and educate America’s youth about this national treasure.  Specifically, the Act will establish a National Jazz Preservation Program at the Smithsonian and resurrect both the Jazz Artists in the Schools Program and the Ambassadors of Jazz Program.  The original cosponsors to the legislation include Rep. Grijalva, Rep. Cohen, Rep. Richmond, Rep. Edwards, Rep. Payne, Rep. Rangel, Rep. Watt, and Rep. Hastings (FL).

“In 1987 I introduced and the House of Representatives passed House Concurrent Resolution 57, which made a profound statement about the origin and cultural importance of jazz.  The National Jazz Preservation and Education Act of 2011 will build on this important resolution by reestablishing jazz programs aimed at elementary and secondary students and by preserving the many artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of jazz in America.  By preserving the past and creating a new generation of jazz fans, this legislation will ensure that this uniquely American musical genre lives on.”