The Wichita City Council is being asked to create a commission to look at reparations for Black residents who have faced injustice and discrimination.
The request was presented during Tuesday’s Council meeting by local activist Mary Dean, who said the commission would play a crucial role in addressing systemic disparities that have impacted the Black community, and it would foster a more equitable future for all residents. She said similar commissions have been created or are under consideration in Kansas City, St. Louis, Boston, and other cities.
Dean said the commission would address issues with Black economics and the wealth gap between white and Black residents, criminal justice, education and housing. She said reparations would be a measure to redress violations of human rights by providing a range of material and symbolic benefits to the Black community. Dean said a thorough examination of the need for reparations will contribute to a more inclusive and just society, promoting unity and understanding among the city’s diverse population.
Council member Brandon Johnson said the request will be submitted to the city’s legal department for review, then it will be presented to the City Council for discussion.