Calay News
San Francisco is considering a proposal to fund reparations for its black residents, which could make it the first major city in the US to do so. The plan suggests awarding $5 million to each eligible black resident, along with guaranteed annual incomes of $97,000 for qualifying recipients and homes in San Francisco for $1 per family. The city-appointed panel has presented these recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for consideration.
Supporters of the plan argue that it would be just compensation for black Americans who have suffered the legacy of slavery and racism. San Francisco is one of several US cities that have taken steps to address historical injustices, including racial discrimination. However, this proposal is one of the most significant steps taken by any city in the country.
The proposal has received mixed reactions, with some people expressing concern about the cost and whether the plan would be effective in addressing systemic racism. Others argue that it is an important step towards acknowledging and repairing the harms of slavery and discrimination.
If the plan is approved, San Francisco would join a small group of US cities that have taken similar steps. Evanston, Illinois, became the first city to fund reparations in 2019 by committing $10 million over a decade towards housing assistance for black residents. Asheville, North Carolina, also recently approved reparations in the form of investments in areas such as homeownership and business ownership for black residents.
The proposal in San Francisco is still in the early stages of consideration, and it remains to be seen whether it will gain widespread support. However, the fact that a major city is even considering such a significant step towards addressing systemic racism and making reparations is a sign of progress towards a more equitable future.
