Reparations

In the wake of the death of George Floyd, the renewed interest in racial justice in our country and my own anti-racist work, I want to know - what can I do? There are many changes one can advocate for at this time. There are new terms that are being tossed around and how do we really know what they mean or what true impact they would have? I believe in keeping it simple. Focusing on one topic allows me to stay focused and learn as much as I can about it. My research and discussions have led me to determine that financial reparations for all descendants of enslaved African people in the US is where I want to put my focus and energy. As a result, my first action step was to write letters to my senators and congresswoman. I'm sharing the letter below if you'd like to use it as a reference to write your own letter. Click here to find your Representative and here to find your Senators. Sending them a letter via the web is quick and easy. 

My message: 
In light of the murder of George Floyd, the continued police violence against Black people in the US and the gross disparities between Blacks and whites in our country, NOW is the time to introduce and support legislation for financial reparations for all descendants of enslaved African people in this country. I implore you to take this step in acknowledging the inherent cruelty, brutality and inhumanity of slavery as practiced in the United States. It is the ONLY way we can begin to heal the wounds, wounds that have not been appropriately acknowledged or addressed and continue to fester, of the millions of people who built our country. Please take action.