Pastor Corey Brooks, founder of Project H.O.O.D., criticizes Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s reparations task force, arguing it ignores the ongoing struggles faced by Black communities due to liberal policies. He questions the focus on historical reparations while neglecting present-day issues like violence, failing schools, and criminal justice reform.
A heated exchange occurred in the California Assembly Judiciary Committee during the discussion of a bill proposing slavery reparations for African Americans. Republican Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez argued against the bill, citing the potential cost of $800 billion and the unfairness of making Asian and Latino Californians pay for a historical wrong they weren’t involved in. Democratic Assemblyman Ash Kalra, visibly emotional, defended the bill, emphasizing the necessity of reparations and highlighting the historical injustices suffered by Black families.
Dr. Cornel West, an unaffiliated presidential candidate, joined a group of protesters demonstrating against Wells Fargo Bank in Washington, D.C., demanding reparations for the historical and ongoing injustices faced by African Americans. West emphasized the importance of holding financial institutions accountable for their role in slavery and subsequent systemic discrimination. He specifically mentioned Wells Fargo’s takeover of Wachovia Bank, which had ties to slaveholding institutions. Activists at the protest highlighted the lack of reparatory compensation for African Americans compared to other marginalized groups, such as Holocaust survivors and Japanese internment camp prisoners. The protest also raised concerns about the alleged involvement of big banks in the slave trade and its enduring impact on modern society.
The Tennessee House of Representatives has defeated a bill that would have prohibited local governments from studying or providing reparations for slavery. The bill, which passed the Republican-controlled Senate last year, failed in the House after facing opposition from both Democrats and some Republicans. While the bill’s sponsor argued it would prevent punishing innocent people for actions committed by past generations, opponents argued that it was important to study the issue and consider reparations as a form of addressing historical injustices.
The Barbados government has paused plans to acquire a former plantation from British MP Richard Drax, whose family profited from slavery. The decision came after widespread backlash from Barbadians who felt the move was disrespectful and inadequate as reparations for the wrongs committed during slavery. Prime Minister Mia Mottley stated that the government will engage in public consultations and explore legal options to pursue reparations from Drax and others responsible for Barbados’ history of racism.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal has stated that the nation bears full responsibility for the atrocities committed during transatlantic slavery and the colonial era, including colonial massacres. He emphasized the need for reparations and a reevaluation of Portugal’s colonial past, which is often viewed as a source of pride. The country’s trafficking of nearly 6 million Africans, more than any other European nation, remains largely unaddressed in educational institutions.
Despite enthusiastic support for cash reparations among Black Californians, legislators have introduced a bill focusing solely on an apology from the governor as the state faces significant budget deficits and public opposition to direct payments. The measure aims to lay the groundwork for future reparations efforts when financial conditions improve.
Haiti, once the beacon of freedom in the Americas, now faces a dire humanitarian crisis amidst rampant gang violence. A newly established transitional council tasked with restoring stability faces immense challenges.
The council’s plan to address the crisis hinges on international support and a pledge to combat gang violence. However, the task is daunting as the capital remains largely controlled by warring gangs, and Haitians remain skeptical of the council’s ability to restore order.
Amidst the ongoing crisis, discussions on alternative solutions continue, including calls for reparations from France and the abolition of the presidency. The situation in Haiti remains fluid, with the future holding both hope and uncertainty.
