The purpose of this legislation is to honor Edward J. Dwight, Jr., who was the first African American astronaut candidate in the United States, by awarding him a Congressional Gold Medal. This recognition aims to celebrate his contributions to the United States, particularly in the fields of aviation, space exploration, and art, while also acknowledging the challenges he faced due to racial discrimination. Key provisions of the legislation include the authorization for the presentation of a gold medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr.