(WXYZ) — Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, as well as Rep. Brenda Lawrence, introduced legislation to posthumously award Aretha Franklin the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of her artistic and cultural contributions.
The legislation was originally introduced in August 2018 after her passing. It was also co-sponsored by Senator Kamala Harris.
“Aretha Franklin’s voice and soul were truly larger than life,” said Senator Stabenow. “Awarding her the Congressional Gold Medal would further celebrate her legacy and recognize her contributions to the arts, civil rights and the City of Detroit. She will never be forgotten.”
The Aretha Franklin Congressional Gold Medal Act would honor her role in shaping culturally and socially relevant discography.
“Aretha Franklin was a global icon and fierce advocate for civil rights, women’s rights and the City of Detroit,” said Senator Peters. “Awarding her the Congressional Gold Medal would be an appropriate tribute to a legendary talent who will continue to inspire artists and activists for generations, and I am proud to join my colleagues in this effort to honor the Queen of Soul.”
