New York Establishes Reparations Commission as Governor Hochul Signs Bill Recognizing Legacy of Slavery

New York, NY – Today, Governor Hochul signed into law S.1163-A/A.7691, which creates the New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies. The Commission will study the legacy of slavery in New York State, discrimination against people of African descent, and the continuing impact of these injustices into the modern day.

In recognition of this momentous achievement by racial justice advocates and the legislature, Assembly Member Brian A. Cunningham issued the following statement:

“Building a just future requires grappling with the wrongs of the past. By passing this legislation into law, New York has taken a crucial step toward rectifying the long-standing pattern of injustice that began, but did not end, with the institution of slavery. The New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies will drive forward New York’s quest to achieve true racial justice, and I could not be more proud to have been part of the passage of this revolutionary legislation. I want to thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator James Sanders, Jr. and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages for their tireless efforts, as well as Governor Hochul for her support.”