HR237: HR237 Suttles, John; commend

This resolution from the Georgia House of Representatives honors John Suttles, who at age 16 took part in the March 7, 1965 Bloody Sunday march in Selma, Alabama, and was hospitalized after violence broke out. He went on to join the later marches from Selma to Montgomery, including the one that reached Montgomery on March 24, 1965. The resolution states that the House recognizes and commends Suttles for his bravery and contributions to racial justice and extends best wishes for his future health and happiness. It also directs the Clerk of the House to prepare a copy of the resolution for distribution to Suttles, who now lives in Johns Creek, Georgia, with his wife, Kay. The resolution does not change any Georgia law; it is a formal statement of recognition.

• Formally recognizes and commends John Suttles for his participation in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery civil rights marches.
• States the House's best wishes for Suttles's future health and happiness.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare a copy of the resolution for distribution to Suttles.
• Creates no new law, funding, or penalty; it is a ceremonial statement by the House of Representatives.

The resolution directly names John Suttles, a Johns Creek, Georgia resident and Selma march participant, as its honoree. It also involves the Clerk of the House of Representatives, who is directed to prepare a copy for him.

While the resolution carries no legal or financial effect, it represents an official acknowledgment by the Georgia House of Representatives of Suttles's role in the civil rights movement, and it results in a commemorative document being presented to him.

• The whereas clauses recount Suttles's participation in the March 7, 1965 Bloody Sunday march in Selma and his hospitalization after the violence.
• The whereas clauses note he later joined the successful Selma to Montgomery march that arrived on March 24, 1965, tying his actions to passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
• The resolving clause has the House commend Suttles for his bravery, courage, and perseverance and contributions to racial justice.
• A further resolving clause directs the Clerk of the House to make a copy available for distribution to Suttles.

1. 2025-02-11House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2025-02-11House First Readers (House)
3. 2025-02-11House Hopper (House)

• Michelle Au (D, HD-050)Primary sponsor
• Miriam Paris (D, HD-142)
• Segun Adeyina (D, HD-110)
• Terry Cummings (D, HD-039)

• civil rights history
• Selma march
• legislative commendation
• Georgia House resolution