The City of Evanston is making a bold move that’s got everyone talking – they’re tackling the hot topic of reparations.
Evanston is taking action to address the decline of African-American residents and other related issues by creating a fund fueled by revenue from the legalization of recreational cannabis in Illinois. Yeah, you heard it right, they’re using that green money to support the African-American community in Evanston. No other city in the country has done something like this before, so it’s a big deal.
Now, picture this: it’s Thanksgiving Eve, and in Toly Walker’s house, the stove burners are working overtime. As a lifelong Evanston resident, she’s not just prepping for a family feast, but also keeping a close eye on the city’s Reparations Resolution.
But here’s the thing – despite being born and raised in Evanston, Walker couldn’t afford to buy a house there. She’s got the education, with not just one, but two master’s degrees. Yet, being black and living in Evanston has made it hard for her to get ahead financially. It’s not just about her, though. She’s concerned about others who don’t have the same opportunities. Should they be stuck renting forever? That’s not right, and it should make everyone angry if they care about fairness.
So, here’s the plan: when recreational marijuana becomes legal, Evanston is gonna take all that tax money and put it into a separate fund just for reparations. Ald. Robin Rue Simmons, who represents the 5th Ward, fought hard to get this resolution approved by the City Council. She’s unapologetic about it, saying this is specifically for the black residents of Evanston.
Now, reparations might stir up some controversy, but Rue Simmons believes it’s about time the community gets what it deserves. She points to Evanston’s history of redlining, where neighborhoods were divided based on race and money. And guess what? The impact of those discriminatory policies is still felt today, especially in the 5th Ward. Black residents were intentionally excluded, and that’s not something to ignore.
The goal is to take $10 million from the marijuana tax revenue and invest it in the reparations fund. They want to encourage minority-owned businesses and bridge the wage gap that has persisted for too long. Walker and others like her could finally see a change that levels the playing field.
Evanston is setting an example for the whole country with this move. They’re pioneering a new path, and other cities should take note. Of course, there might be some legal battles along the way as they figure out how to allocate the funds, but they’re ready to fight for what’s right.
So, keep your eyes on Evanston, folks. They’re rewriting the rules and leading the charge towards a more equitable future.
