Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages hosts reparations commission hearing in Hempstead

Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and other members of the New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies convened on Saturday, May 23, at Hempstead High School to hear testimony, experiences and perspectives from community members, advocates, stakeholder groups, faith leaders and others.

Originally established in 2023 through legislation passed by Solages, the commission has been tasked with gathering a preponderance of data to present to lawmakers as they weigh the necessity, feasibility and execution of a pathway to reparations for people of African descent.

Community members shared both personal stories and historical perspectives, reflecting on issues ranging from education, housing and economic inequality to healthcare disparities, generational wealth and more.

“As the Commission drafts its report,” Solages said, “it is important to gather every perspective on offer to maximize the usefulness of the data collected over the last three years.”

“My hope is that this data can be used to cut through the noise and grant us a clear picture of both the situation that people of African descent face in this country, as well as how we got here,” Solages added. “Once that picture is firmly established, we can explore how historical injustices with lasting effects might best be addressed in a manner that benefits all.”