The New York City Council is considering requiring the erection of structures and interpretive signs marking the 1863 Draft Riots. A bill is now pending to fund a study of how to present the Draft Riots to the public. The riots took place in July of 1863 when the first Draft was held. During the first day, a mostly Irish mob rioted against the authorities administering the draft. After the first day, rioters turned to persecuting Black New Yorkers. Roughly 100 to 400 New Yorkers were killed, including several dozen Blacks.
The council estimates that it will take $200,000 to fund the study. According to Gothamist:
“Intro 496 would require the commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs to conduct the study and consult with other agencies, community stakeholders and at least one expert. The report would include recommendations on the types of memorials, their locations and potential inscriptions, as well as funding and approval processes.
The legislation would also require the findings to be submitted to the mayor and the City Council.”
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