The Black History Month Chicago Reparations Celebration, co-hosted by the Conrad Worrill Community Reparations Commission and Reparations United, took place at the Kehrein Center for the Arts Saturday.
The aim of this event highlights Black history and the concept of reparations – or the acknowledgement of the of human rights violations and perpetuating inequality against African Americans in this country, and the economic and other repair of those consequences. It gave an opportunity for the CWCRC, community members, leaders, clergy and elected officials to commemorate significant milestones, ignite a sense of reverence for ancestors, and reaffirm identity as Black individuals.
The Chicago city budget passed in November with about $500,000 for a new commission on Restoration and Reparations. Mayor Brandon Johnson is working with the Aldermanic Black Caucus to move the issue forward. In 2019, Evanston became the first U.S. city to pass a reparations resolution in for Black residents who qualified.
The weekend’s event featured notable speakers such as Robin Rue Simmons, leading as the executive director of First Repair in Evanston, Roderick Sawyer, former alderman of the 6th Ward in Chicago and a proponent of reparations, LaKisha T. David, a professor and genealogist at the University of Urbana Champaign, Marvin Slaughter, Chairperson for the Illinois African Descent-Citizens Reparations Commission, and Miranda Alexandria, acting as co-chair of the NCOBRA Chicago Chapter.
The celebration showcased a range of offerings, including food, live music, giveaways and captivating performances by DJ Phantom, Beyonce Foxx, Blaq Ice and the South Shore Drill Team.
Austin resident Angela Simmons brought her two children, who said they also enjoyed the music.
“My children are having fun and I am thrilled how Reparations United and the Conrad Worrill Community Reparations Commission were able to set this whole event up. As a Black woman, having events like these really helps me to learn and reflect on our progress and celebrate at the same time,” Simmons said.
In addition to the celebration, the first 100 attendees who registered for the event were given VIP tickets to participate in the Reparations Awareness movie screening at the Chatham Emagine Theatre.
Austin Lewis, a resident of Austin, expressed his delight in attending the event.
“Reflecting on our identity during Black History Month serves as both a celebration of our heritage and a recognition of the resilience and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It’s a powerful reminder of our collective journey, our ongoing struggles, and our unwavering determination to shape a better future,” Lewis said.
Formed in 2020, the Conrad Worrill Community Reparations Commission aims to sustain efforts in raising awareness about reparations and mobilize community efforts towards formulating reparative plans as well as provide counsel to elected representatives regarding the implementation and financing of reparatory initiatives.