FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Historic Swearing-In Ceremony for New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies Commissioners
Albany, NY – July 30, 2024 – In a landmark moment for the state of New York and the nation, the New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies Commissioners officially have their first convening today. This historic event marks a significant step towards addressing the legacy of slavery and systemic racism, underscoring New York's commitment to justice and equity for African American communities and setting a precedent for other states to follow.
The commission, composed of esteemed scholars, community advocates, and legal experts, is charged with examining the impacts of slavery, systemic discrimination, and their ongoing effects on African Americans in New York State. The commissioners will also explore and recommend appropriate remedies, including reparations, to address these long-standing injustices.
“The Democrats Abroad Global Reparations Task Force applauds the swearing in of the New York State reparations commission as a major milestone not just for New York State, not just for the United States, but for the world. We recognize that the New York financial market was the engine which powered global capital investment – an engine fueled by stolen labor. We acknowledge that understanding the financial impact will shed light on how U.S. chattel slavery was sustained by New York’s governmental complicity, as well as how it affects Black people no matter where they reside. By reinvesting in our shared past, we know the commission can begin creating a stronger future for all New Yorkers.”
Martha McDevitt-Pugh, International Chair, Democrats Abroad
Antar Keith, Chair, Democrats Abroad Global Reparations Task Force
Antar Keith, Chair, Democrats Abroad Global Reparations Task Force
The full press release from NY state can be found here.