Chicago Formally Apologizes to Black Citizens, Establishes Reparations Task Force

The city of Chicago, on Monday, June 17th, took a historical step by formally apologizing to its Black citizens for the long-lasting damage caused by slavery, segregation under Jim Crow laws, and ongoing discriminatory policies. 

Through Executive Order 2024-1, signed by Mayor Brandon Johnson, the city established a “Reparations Task Force to develop a Black Reparations Agenda.” 

This task force will examine generational inequities in various domains, including housing, health, education, and policing policies, and ultimately offer recommendations for remedies.

The city had previously allocated $500,000 in the budget to facilitate this comprehensive study.

“Today’s Executive Order is not just a public declaration; it is a pledge to shape the future of our city by confronting the legacy of inequity that has plagued Chicago for far too long,” said Mayor Johnson, expressing his commitment to reconciliation through targeted investments aimed at rectifying decades of disinvestment in Black neighborhoods.

He continued, “In partnership with the Chicago City Council Black Caucus and our dedicated allies, we are continuing to build on the bedrock of my administration to move forward in reconciliation through targeted investments aimed at rectifying decades of deliberate disinvestment in Black neighborhoods and communities.”

The order acknowledges that the legacy of chattel slavery and Jim Crow laws are incompatible with modern values and sets a timetable and goals for the task force to address these long-standing issues.

Alderman Stephanie Coleman of the 16th Ward praised the initiative, saying, “Today is a major step forward, and I am thankful to the Johnson Administration for its continued support and commitment to addressing the deep wounds inflicted by centuries of injustice against the Black community.”

She added, “We will not be ashamed of who we are, and what we have overcome.”

Chicago’s initiative aligns with similar efforts in other U.S. cities like San Francisco, Detroit, and Asheville, which have also embarked on exploring the impacts of slavery and systemic racism. 

Evanston, Illinois, has emerged as a leader in this effort by launching a groundbreaking program that grants $25,000 to Black residents affected by racially biased housing policies enforced by the city.