Georgia General Assembly · Full text

HR 524: "Kumbaya"; the Gullah Geechee Anthem; commend

Introduced version, the latest LegiScan holds · Last action March 6, 2025 · Passed

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House Resolution 524

By: Representatives Williams of the 168th, DeLoach of the 167th, Jackson of the 165th, Gilliard of the 162nd, and Adeyina of the 110th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing "Kumbaya" as the Gullah Geechee Anthem; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the song "Kumbaya," also known by its original title "Come by Here", is a cherished spiritual folk song with deep roots in the Gullah-Geechee culture of the Sea Islands; and

WHEREAS, "Kumbaya" is recognized as Georgia's first state historical song and holds global significance, having become a symbol of American folk music; and

WHEREAS, the song was first recorded in Georgia, with the first known recording documented by the Library of Congress, establishing its national and cultural significance; and

WHEREAS, in 1926, numerous folk songs in the Gullah dialect, also known as Sea Islands Creole, were preserved and shared with the world, helping to elevate the cultural voice of the Gullah-Geechee people; and

WHEREAS, Mr. H. Wylie, an African American of Gullah-Geechee heritage, granted permission for the song "Come by Here" to be recorded, marking a pivotal moment in the preservation of the spiritual and cultural contributions of the Gullah-Geechee community; and

WHEREAS, the song "Kumbaya" has transcended its origins as a spiritual song, becoming a widely recognized anthem of unity, hope, and cultural pride; and

WHEREAS, the Gullah-Geechee people have made significant contributions to the cultural fabric of Georgia and the United States, with their language, music, and traditions playing an integral role in the history and heritage of this nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize "Kumbaya" as the official anthem of the Gullah-Geechee culture, honoring its historical importance and acknowledging the ongoing contributions of the Gullah-Geechee people to our state and nation.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the press.