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Evanston, Illinois has become the first city in the United States to take action on Illinois reparations by providing financial assistance to its Black residents who have been impacted by years of discrimination.
Illinois Reparations: Evanston City, First In United States That Put Money on Black Citizens! (PHOTO: NPR)
Illinois Reparations In Evanston City
Spearheaded by Robin Rue Simmons, founder, and executive director of First Repair and chairperson of the committee on Illinois reparations, Evanston’s initiative has inspired over 100 other municipalities to consider similar programs, Yahoo Finance News reported.
The focus of the Evanston, Illinois reparations effort is to address the widening racial gaps, education disparities, and economic harm experienced by its Black community. Housing was identified as a priority area for redress, and the city launched the Restorative Housing Program.
Initially funded with $10 million from a city sales tax on recreational cannabis, the program offers $25,000 to eligible applicants in the form of vouchers for home purchases, mortgage assistance, or home renovations. These benefits can also be transferred to descendants. An additional $10 million was added to the Illinois reparations fund from real estate transfer taxes.
The eligibility criteria for receiving reparations are based on being an African American or Black individual who lived in Evanston between 1919 and 1969 or being a descendant of such a resident. During this period, Black residents faced housing discrimination due to early city zoning laws, which caused racial segregation and other disparities.
While the initial phase of disbursing funds is focused on housing, the next phase will address the education gap. The city aims to continue prioritizing Illinois reparations and addressing racial gaps, even beyond the current 10-year commitment.
READ ALSO: California Reparations Task Force Proposed Hundreds Of Recommendations After 2 Years Of Research
Understanding Illinois Reparations
Simmons emphasizes the importance of research and public education to broaden the understanding of Illinois reparations and differentiate it from other equity-focused policies. She sees Illinois reparations as a matter of justice that uplifts not only Black families but also the entire community, creating healthier communities, increasing wealth, and generating additional tax revenue.
Evanston’s groundbreaking initiative provides a model for other cities and highlights the ongoing national conversation on reparations. By taking tangible steps to repair past harm, the city aims to achieve greater equity and build a more just society for all.
READ ALSO: Black Americans Reparations: Multiracial Groups Show Support!
