Date Published: 4/15/2020
Author(s): Rashawn Ray and Andre M. Perry
Resource Link: https://www.brookings.edu/policy2020/bigideas/why-we-need-reparations-for-black-americans/
Summary: Authors Ray and Perry present their arguments for reparations, discussing how the American government needs to pay for the losses caused by slavery and the losses perpetuated throughout history by antiblack policies. While some groups such as Japenese Americans and Native Americans have been offered reparations in some form, black Americans still have not. In fact, the US government has failed to capitalize on many opportunities throughout history to make amends for slavery, such as with Field Order 15, the GI Bill, and even the recent COVID bailouts. Beyond individual direct payments, the authors discuss other forms of reparations such as college tuition, student loan forgiveness, business grants, etc. A podcast with the two authors can also be found on the SURJ resources page (search for "The case for reparations for Black Americans")
Take Action!
Search the internet to research the H.R. 40 bill that aims to create a commission to examine the merits of introducing reparations for slavery in the US. Discuss the bill and reparations with a friend or family member to normalize conversations around reparations.