by Craig Thompson
Recently, I have read a number of articles regarding the "controversial" issue of reparations. The mass media appears to have taken the topic under its wing and is attempting to fly it off to some undisclosed destination. It also appears that an attempt is being made once again by the media to dilute the issue and minimize public support by people of all races. As a result, the victims of continuing racial discrimination are being forced to face off against each other to establish the precedence of "who hurts the most."
I believe strongly that the reparations debate must be based on facts and that it can be handled logically. In order to accomplish this, three questions must be answered. The first question to answer is whether individuals in this country classified as "African Americans" have been damaged as a result of the exploitation related to chattel slavery. The second question comes in two parts. The first part of the question to answer is whether America (and Americans) have benefited from this exploitation. If the answer is "yes", the second part to answer is to what extent has America benefited from the exploitation? The third question is what remedies must be employed to repair the damage caused by the exploitation of African Americans?
I propose that we take the reparations discussion to a new level. If we are serious about placing this topic on the intellectual radar screens of both the United States and of the world community, the facts must be clear. In his book The Debt: What America Owes to Blacks, Randall Robinson delivers a clear and convincing argument. In addition, several prominent legal scholars such as Charles Ogeltree, Robert Westley and Vincene Verdun have spoken and published well-documented articles regarding the legal sufficiency of the reparations discussion.
For several years, Congressman John Conyers has attempted to place this issue before the U.S. Congress. His bill, "H.B. 40" seeks to "examine the institution of slavery" and evaluate its impact on the African Americans. In addition, the
Bill proposes the establishment of committees to discuss options available for repairing the damage caused by the institution of slavery.
Those persons interested in a productive discussion about reparations will find several publications helpful. For instance, The Reparations Manifesto (published by the TransAfrica Forum) will provide several interesting talking points. In the 1973 publication, The Case for Black Reparations, author and former professor at Yale University Boris Bittker provides thought provoking discussion.
Reading publications such as those listed above is essential to understanding the current schools of thought about reparations. However, the real groundwork will be laid by reading as much as you can about the history of African Americans and the dynamics that resulted in centuries of exploitation.
Remember, the future of our communities must not be relegated to the discussions and debates prompted by the mainstream media. If we are to (re) build a strong economic and social structure, we must respect the construction process and learn everything we can about our potential.
Challenge those who would diminish the strength of the reparations issue by focusing only on "getting a check." The discussions on reparations is not about "getting paid." The discussions on reparations is about meeting those intellectual, economic and moral challenges necessary to secure our future. Are you ready?
Craig Thompson is an attorney, lecturer, writer and host of weekly radio and television shows. At age 32, Craig is a highly sought after public speaker, addressing topics such as leadership, goal setting and self-esteem. He has spoken across the country at churches, schools, colleges and to civic organizations. He can be reached at cathompson42001@yahoo.com
