In three columns earlier submitted to the Gazette, a “take-away” point suggests that those of us white people who make our homes in Northampton are foolish to hold ourselves accountable for a period in American history involving enslavement of Black workers by white property owners. This argument sidesteps many historic and current realities that call for our consideration of reparative measures. It’s important to consider that factors undergirding current racial disparities in economics and social life did not end in 1865. The earlier columns seem to overlook the idea that reparations discussions are not merely implying the introduction of one-time cash pay-offs to parties harmed by the earlier federal government’s failure to deliver on its promise of “Forty Acres and a Mule.”

Actions and policies over decades and centuries reveal marginalization, exclusion, and systematic abuses. I believe reparation can be seen as an official acknowledgment of harms consciously and unconsciously based on race. As was said by Ida B. Wells, American investigative journalist, educator, and leader in civil rights and anti-lynching movements: “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.” Public policies such as the Social Security Act were implemented without regard for the fact that industries largely employing Black workers were omitted. The G.I. Bill, enacted to assist veterans of World War II with college tuition, home ownership, and unemployment benefits was implemented in ways that disadvantaged many Black veterans. Even in the 21st century, biases about Black health and skills have hampered Black families’ ability to thrive economically, to live in safe and comfortable neighborhoods, and for Black youth to be able to act in relaxed and natural ways. Need I mention the numerous and ongoing patterns of terrorism towards Black communities and individuals that serve to inhibit their normal growth and peaceful existence? Tulsa, Oklahoma; Chaney, Schwerner and Goodman; and current police violence and killings of Black individuals function to inhibit confidence in the right to thrive economically, socially, and participate fully in public life.

Carol Owen

Florence

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