Congress finally introduces a resolution recognizing the importance of magic in America

Thanks to J.K. Rowling, we know that wizards have played many important roles throughout U.S. history. Now, our no-maj congressmen are finally taking the time to recognize the importance of sorcery to this country.

A resolution recently introduced in the House of Representatives is dedicated to “Recognizing magic as a rare and valuable art form and national treasure.” [Ed. note: Nice]

The bill, introduced by Rep. Pete Sessions, R-Texas, was introduced on Monday and referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, where it awaits a proper debate and hexing.

The resolution is probably referring to stage magic rather than the stuff of fantasy novels. But if you read the opening lines, you might think otherwise:

Whereas magic is an art form with the unique power and potential to impact the lives of all people;

Whereas magic enables people to experience the impossible;

Whereas magic is used to inspire and bring wonder and happiness to others;

Whereas magic has had a significant impact on other art forms;

Whereas magic, like the great art forms of dance, literature, theater, film, and the visual arts, allows people to experience something that transcends the written word;

Whereas many technological advances can be directly traced to the influential work of magicians;

Whereas futurist Arthur C. Clarke claimed that any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic;

So far, this all sounds like stuff Rep. Sessions and Rowling probably agree upon. Later on though, it becomes more clear the type of magic Sessions had in mind (the boring kind).

Whereas the American magicians Harry Houdini and David Copperfield have been the most successful magicians of the past two centuries;

Whereas David Copperfield, introduced to magic as a boy growing up in New Jersey, has been named a Living Legend by the Library of Congress;

Whereas David Copperfield, with 21 Emmy Awards, 11 Guinness World Records, and over four billion dollars in ticket sales, has impacted every aspect of the global entertainment industry;

Whereas David Copperfield, through his magic, inspires great positive change in the lives of Americans;

Whereas people consistently leave David Copperfield’s live magic show with a different perspective than when they entered;

Representatives put forth resolutions like this recognizing different individuals and industry all the time. But it really makes you wonder what kind of lobbyists Rep. Sessions has visiting his office that he would decide magic as deserving of congressional laud. I guess the Alliance finally got to him.