In this illuminating reflection on United States' history, reparations advocate Chrissi Jackson offers a compelling argument on the case for reparations for Black Americans.
Since effective action was not taken immediately after slavery - to promote racial healing and provide former slaves with land and the ability to integrate into society - the United States was able to sustain an economy and society in favor of people with white skin. There were many opportunities - post-abolition and before the Jim Crow era - for Congress to set a nationwide precedent for racial equality. Instead, the US chose to reinforce institutionalized White supremacy. As a result, race-based inequities in economics and society remain evident and are not exclusive to the descendants of slaves - they affect all Black people in America, at every class level. Likewise, all White people in America continue to benefit from a system of White privilege, whether their ancestors owned slaves or not.
The immoral truths about how this country came to be are shameful and painful to reckon with. But we must move forward with confidence in where we are, respect for those who were forced to sacrifice, and a clear vision for the country we aspire to be. Awarding reparations to African Americans for human rights violations is not an act of punishment or welfare. Awarding reparations is an act of remedy and repair. Awarding reparations is about understanding the problem, taking accountability, and doing the necessary work to fix the damage and close the gaps - so that we can evolve beyond it.
Reparations Handbook clearly outlines the United States' moral commitment to protect human rights, pinpoints the human rights violations committed against Black Americans by the US, then reveals a comprehensive guide for remedy and repair that can be applied in government and in local communities.
This no-frills approach to reparations highlights a dimly lit past and a hopeful future - one that acknowledges the impact reparations can have on creating a more equitable America.
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