NYS Senator James Sanders Jr. addresses the crowd. Photo courtesy of Sen. Sanders’ Office
NYS Senator James Sanders Jr. welcomed community leaders, elected officials, and members of the public to a pre-mixer event preceding the historic inaugural New York State Reparations Remedies Meeting held in New York City on Monday, Dec. 16. The event fostered an atmosphere of unity, reflection, and purpose as attendees engaged in meaningful dialogue on “the path toward reparative justice.”
In late 2023, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed Sanders’ S1163A into law, establishing the “New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies.” The commission is tasked with examining and addressing the impact of slavery and its ongoing consequences.
The mixer, held in advance of the commission’s meeting, brought together notable public leaders, including NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, NYS Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson, NYS Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, NYS Assemblywoman Vivian Cook, and others. The event was complemented by food catered by Ralph’s Coffee Shop, adding to the evening’s warm and welcoming environment.
The NYS Community Commission on Reparations Remedies is tasked with examining the impact of slavery and addressing its ongoing consequences. Photo courtesy of Sen. Sanders’ Office
Following the mixer, the NYS Reparations Remedies Commission commenced its formal meeting, which proved to be both historic and impactful. During the passionate public forum segment that followed, critical dialogue unfolded, offering valuable insights and further advancing the conversation on reparative solutions for communities historically impacted by systemic inequities.
“This event was more than just a gathering; it served as a platform to build momentum for the reparations conversation, ensuring that we engage with all voices in this critical work,” Sanders said. “The historic meeting and passionate public forum reflected the urgency and commitment to addressing long-overdue reparative justice. I am encouraged by the dialogue that unfolded and the engagement of our public leaders and community members.”