Historic Legislation for Black American WWII Soldiers & Descendants Gaining More Traction
A monumental step toward justice is underway with the introduction of the *S.3257 – Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Restoration Act of 2023*. Named after two Black WWII veterans who faced systemic racial injustices, this bill seeks to rectify the denial of benefits many Black soldiers and their descendants have long been owed. Introduced by Senator Raphael Warnock, and originally championed by Congressman Jim Clyburn and Representative Seth Moulton, the bill is gaining momentum through a growing petition on Change.org.
This legislation aims to provide housing loans, educational assistance, and further benefits for the descendants of Black WWII veterans, acknowledging the grave injustices they endured. The bill honors Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr., who was brutally beaten and blinded in uniform by police in 1946, and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox, who was denied VA financial aid despite being accepted to Harvard University.
With just under 700 signatures, the petition supporting this bill encourages Americans and veterans’ organizations to rally behind the cause. The bill’s passage would finally offer long-overdue recognition and restitution for Black American WWII veterans and their families.
You can read and sign the petition [here](https://chng.it/YpvMCLKdP4). Learn more about the bill [here](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/3257/text).
