Governor González-Colón Highlights Reintroduction of Bill to Honor Roberto Clemente at the U.S. Capitol
La Fortaleza, Puerto Rico – August 24, 2026 – Governor of Puerto Rico Jenniffer González Colón highlighted the introduction of bipartisan legislation in the United States Congress to authorize the placement of a statue honoring the life and legacy of baseball legend and humanitarian Roberto Clemente at the U.S. Capitol. The bill revives an initiative that then-Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González-Colón drafted and championed during her time in Congress.
The legislation, H.R. 10121, represents a bipartisan effort to recognize Clemente’s extraordinary legacy, whose impact extended far beyond the baseball field through his humanitarian work, advocacy for equality, and commitment to helping those most in need.
"I thank my friend Congressman Gus Bilirakis for reintroducing legislation I was proud to author and champion when I served in Congress to honor Roberto Clemente with a statue at the U.S. Capitol. Clemente was a hero and a trailblazer whose commitment to serving others and uplifting those in need made him a source of inspiration and pride for Puerto Rico and across the United States. This bill would ensure Clemente's life and legacy are permanently honored in our Nation's Capitol, and I look forward to working with Congressman Bilirakis to move it across the finish line," said Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González-Colón.
Congressman Gus Bilirakis also highlighted the significance of reintroducing the legislation and Clemente’s legacy as both an athlete and humanitarian:
“Roberto Clemente embodied the very best of the American spirit. He was a trailblazer whose extraordinary talent changed the game of baseball, but his greatest legacy was the compassion, courage, and selflessness he demonstrated in service to others,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “As a proud Floridian who represents a vibrant Hispanic community and a lifelong Pirates fan, I know how deeply Clemente’s example continues to resonate with generations of Americans. It is fitting that we announce this bipartisan legislation on his birthday to ensure his remarkable story and enduring legacy are permanently honored at our Nation’s Capitol. I am proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to recognize a true American hero whose life reminds us that greatness is measured not simply by what we achieve, but by what we do for others.”
Clemente was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1973 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003, two of the Nation’s highest honors. Major League Baseball also annually presents the Roberto Clemente Award to the player who best exemplifies exceptional character, commitment to his community, philanthropy, and positive contributions both on and off the field.
If enacted, the legislation would authorize the creation and permanent display of a statue of Clemente at the U.S. Capitol, allowing the millions of people who visit the Capitol each year to learn about a man whose contributions transcended sports and whose example of courage, service, and compassion continues to inspire generations.
More than five decades after his passing, Roberto Clemente’s legacy remains a symbol of excellence, Puerto Rican pride, service, and commitment to others. The initiative seeks to ensure that his enduring legacy receives permanent recognition at the U.S. Capitol.
The measure was introduced by Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and cosponsored by Congressmen Darren Soto (D-FL), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), and Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández (D-PR).
For more information: Congressman Bilirakis’ official press release
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