HJR161 Summary

• Commends and celebrates the Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center in Camden, Alabama on its 20th Anniversary, recognizing its contributions to cultural and economic vitality in Alabama's Black Belt region.

• Center was established in February 2005 as a nonprofit organization with a mission to invigorate the Black Belt economy through sale and promotion of fine arts and heritage crafts, plus arts education opportunities.

• Represents more than 580 artists including authors, musicians, painters, sculptors, potters, basket-weavers, quilters, and woodworkers who have collectively achieved over $2.27 million in sales and welcome approximately 13,000 annual gallery visitors.

• Serves as centerpiece of arts-driven economic revitalization through artist development, community engagement with schools and civic organizations, and provision of artist demonstrations, workshops, and presentations.

• Passed by House on April 3, 2025 and adopted by Senate on April 9, 2025.