Delaware commission preserves and shares African American heritage

The commission serves as a statewide resource to document, preserve, collect, and promote African American heritage and culture. Its work includes educating Delaware residents and visitors, sharing overlooked stories, developing historians, and supporting groups with similar goals.

The commission includes representatives of named organizations and members appointed by state officials. Seats include leaders of two heritage organizations, university and state representatives, and representatives of named community groups. Reasonable efforts must be made to include people who live or work in each county and representatives or graduates of the named historic schools. Appointed members serve three-year terms and may serve two additional terms. A member may stay until a replacement is appointed.

The commission must form a committee to help identify potential nominees; it may also create other committees. Other committees may include nonmembers and work with organizations and individuals that share the commission's mission. Before an appointed member's term expires, the formation committee must give the appointing authority a list of possible nominees; the authority may consider them. The Secretary of State or a designee sets the date, time, and place for the commission's first organizational meeting.