NEW YORK -- Gov. Kathy Hochul signed racial justice legislation Tuesday morning to create a commission to consider reparations for slavery.
For so many Black New Yorkers this is a historic step to help right the wrongs of the past.
It's also controversial. Hochul said she knows many state residents do not support it, but added it had to be signed.
Six months ago, state lawmakers passed a bill that creates a state commission to examine slavery and discrimination against African-Americans. It passed 41-21 in the Senate and 106-41 in the Assembly.
The legislation will recommend reparations to repair the ongoing impacts and lingering effects of segregation.
Advocates say prior to the Revolutionary War there were more enslaved Africans in New York City than in any other city, except for Charleston, South Carolina. The population of enslaved Africans accounted for 20% of New York's population.
"Reparations should not be misunderstood. It does not mean erasing the past or reversing historical events. Such a feat is impossible. However, it does entail more than a mere apology issued 150 years later. This bill aims to facilitate a dialogue, a reasoned discussion about the future we desire. And in my opinion, there is nothing more democratic than that," expressed Hochul.
The commission, which will be active for a period of one year, will consist of nine members who possess expertise in African or American studies, civil rights, human rights, and criminal justice.
