ST. LOUIS – The City of St. Louis has released its Reparations Report, a plan it says is designed to help solve the impacts of systemic racism and economic inequality endured by Black residents. In the report, the group compiled actionable reccomendations to help those affected by housing discrimination, educational inequity, and economic disinvestment.
“This report is not just a reflection on our past–it’s a road map for building a more equitable future for all residents of St. Louis,” said Kayla Reed, Chairperson of the Commission.
Through research, policy analysis, and extensive community engagement with local stakeholders, community leaders, and residents, the commission focused on these key areas.
- Housing and Neighborhoods: Policies designed to close the racial wealth gap, such as business grants, homeownership programs, and land restitution
- Education: Proposals for increased investment in underfunded schools, specifically targeting St. Louis Public Schools, to raise teacher salaries and provide robust support services to Black students
- Public Health : Recommendations for restoring historically Black neighborhoods and ensuring affordable housing is accessible to impacted communities
- Health and Well-Being: Initiatives to address health disparities through increased access to medical care, mental health services, and trauma-informed resources
“The release of this report marks a critical moment for our city. These recommendations offer a path toward healing and justice, addressing generations of systemic racism and economic exclusion. If we implement them, we can begin to close the racial wealth gap and build a St. Louis where every resident has the opportunity to thrive,” explained Reed.
The commission also says it made sure those most affected were central to their final recommendations.
“The work reflected in this report is an acknowledgement of the harms done, but more importantly, it’s a commitment to correcting those wrongs and investing in the future of Black communities in St. Louis,” said Dr. Will Ross, Vice Chair of the Commission.“This report represents a turning point for St. Louis.”
Ross adds it is a recognition of the systemic barriers that have held back Black communities for generation.
“It’s a commitment to dismantling those barriers. By implementing these recommendations, we are investing in a future where Black families can thrive, where equity is at the core of our policies, and where justice is no longer an aspiration, but a reality,” says Ross.
The city hopes to hold public forums and information sessions to discuss the plans with residents.