By Noah Kline, Community Commons, March 2021
Although the #BlackLivesMatter protests of 2020 were ignited by high-profile police murders, the movement’s demands address a much broader array of issues. Indeed, there can be no end to police violence, and no racial justice, without a complete upheaval of the system of racism that lies at the foundation of the United States. Although truth, reconciliation, and conversation play a role in this process, Black organizers from across the country have emphasized that action must accompany talk, and that this action must involve a massive redistribution of resources. The following policy goals, which are taken from a diverse array of racial justice organizations, are key steps towards a society free of systemic racism.
Reparations and Economic Justice
Pass H.R. 40 to provide direct reparations to all Black Americans. Other forms of reparations include providing free college, debt forgiveness.
Enact an extreme wealth tax to fund social services and invest in social security and social benefits programs.
Environmental Justice
Establish a green jobs program that targets low-income communities for employment.
Enact community control of permitting to prevent environmentally destructive industries from impacting Black communities.
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