Step 2 - Written Testimony - Second Draft: Assignment

Your written testimony will contain a header, salutation, 1st paragraph, 2nd paragraph, 3rd paragraph, and final paragraph.

Header: Your name and any community association or organization you imagine yourself representing in this scenario. Include the name and/or number of the proposed bill and a brief statement of your position.

Salutation: Address the committee in a formal way ("Dear Madam or Sir").

First Paragraph: Identify yourself, where you are from, and if you represent a community or organization. Be sure to name any position you hold within the organization or if you have any elected position within the community. If you are representing a neighborhood, you should mention the number of constituents or homes you are representing. At the end of the paragraph, state in one sentence the purpose of your testimony and your position on the issue.

Second Paragraph: State and explain the main points you developed in your Step 1 draft. Make sure to include how this debate over the license plate impacts you and your community. This is a good place to offer knowledge you have learned from this course on African American history and culture to support whichever position you take. In other words, use historical evidence to strengthen your arguments.

Third Paragraph: Offer suggestions or alternative strategies for how to resolve the issue, and address possible concerns that those on the opposite side of the issue may have.

Final Paragraph: Thank the committee for allowing you the opportunity to speak and voice your concerns. Conclude the reasons why they should support your position.

Below is my step 1 draft:

Introduction: Good afternoon, members of the legislative committee. My name is Iesha long, and I am a resident of Baltimore, Maryland. I serve the honor and local community within the city of Baltimore and the great state of Maryland, representing approximately 3500 constituents for bill number 54-2415 license plate series. I appreciate the opportunity to speak before you today. I am here to express my strong support for the proposed "Enslaved African Americans" license plate series. This initiative is a significant and overdue step in acknowledging and honoring the contributions and struggles of enslaved African Americans in Maryland. Historical Acknowledgment: Maryland has a profound and complex history regarding slavery and the fight for freedom. The proposed license plate series, starting with an image of Harriet Tubman and the message "Remember the Past," serves as a powerful tool for historical acknowledgment. Harriet Tubman, a native of Maryland, is a national icon for her role in the Underground Railroad, helping countless enslaved individuals escape to freedom. By featuring her image on our license plates, we honor her bravery and the countless others who fought for their freedom and the freedom of others. Acknowledging this history is not just about remembering the past; it's about understanding the foundations upon which our society is built. This license plate can serve as an educational tool, promoting awareness and understanding among Maryland's citizens and visitors. It encourages us to reflect on the injustices of the past and recognize the ongoing struggles and contributions of African Americans. The educational value of this license plate cannot be overstated. By making history visible in everyday life, we remind ourselves and others of the importance of equality, justice, and resilience. Cultural and Community Impact: The license plate series holds significant cultural and community importance. For the African American community in Maryland, this initiative represents a form of recognition and respect. It acknowledges the painful history of slavery while celebrating the strength and resilience of those who endured and overcame it. This act of recognition can foster a sense of pride within the community, serving as a reminder of the progress made and the importance of continuing the fight for equality and justice. Moreover, this license plate can serve as a unifying symbol. It provides an opportunity for all Marylanders to come together to acknowledge and learn from our shared history. By displaying these plates, individuals can show their support for historical truth and cultural acknowledgment. It sends a message that Maryland is a state that values its diverse history and is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful community for all its residents. I would like to thank everyone at the committee for taking the time and listening not only to my views but 3500 Baltimore proud civilians that would love to honor this license plate series. I hope you at the committee take the time to comeback with the best decision in backing this plate and showing our support for African Amercian community and embrace a better future for all cultures