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.