In March of 2023, Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Mikie Sherrill introduced H.R. 1831, to award Billie Jean King the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian awards in the United States. Bestowed by the U.S. Congress, the Congressional Gold Medal recognizes national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions that have a lasting effect in the recipient’s field long after the achievement itself.
In September of 2023, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand, Shelley Moore Capito, and Kyrsten Sinema introduced S.2861, the bipartisan Senate companion legislation, to award Billie Jean King the Congressional Gold Medal. On May 8, 2024, in an exciting and significant development, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed S.2861, putting it one step closer to being signed into law.
To date, an individual woman athlete has never received the award, and we can’t think of anyone more deserving at this moment in time than tennis legend, gender equity and civil rights icon, and Women’s Sports Foundation Founder, Billie Jean King.
There has never been more momentum to #GiveBJKtheGold and we need your help!
Email or tweet your members of Congress today to urge them to co-sponsor this legislation. Use the form below to contact your members of Congress today!