Yesterday, the House adopted that policy when they issued an apology for the African Americans for slavery and for Jim Crow.
Here’s an excerpt of the article that appeared on MSNBC.com:
The House on Tuesday issued an unprecedented apology to black Americans for the wrongs committed against them and their ancestors who suffered under slavery and Jim Crow segregation laws…
Congress has issued apologies before — to Japanese-Americans for their internment during World War II and to native Hawaiians for the overthrow of the Hawaiian kingdom in 1893. In 2005, the Senate apologized for failing to pass anti-lynching laws.
Five states have issued apologies for slavery, but past proposals in Congress have stalled, partly over concerns that an apology would lead to demands for reparations — payment for damages.
There was no mention of reparations, and I think that’s okay, for a number of reasons. For one, we are all so intertwined, that I can see people being upset when people who aren’t African Americans receive benefits. Additionally, I’m not so sure what issuing a check would do- other than be a symbolic attempt at what had been previously promised (40 acres and a mule). Perhaps that’s important; however, I can’t see that being something that fares well in the United States. I also see that being something that will divide more than unite.
But, as we’ve learned- it’s not too late to apologize. And I am glad that it’s happened.
life beyond the well... 
July 30, 2008 at 10:11 am
I feel you but, I don’t think it will change anything. I’ll be happy when racism slows down.lol
July 30, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Never been a fan of the reparations movement. At least not in a monetary form. Don’t think its practical or realistic.
However, a computer and free internet access for every home in the hood would be a good start in relieving the lack of access and opportunity that hinder the development of young black kids all over this country.
Maybe thats not be practical either, but its food for thought.
July 31, 2008 at 2:10 am
I still think we need reparations in the form of therapy. some of us suffer from PTSD….seriously.
then others just need to be diagnosed as lazy so we can stop blaming the man for our own shortcomings. yes I’m talking about my cousin but whatever…
July 31, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Really, Twilla- PTSD? I need further explanation please.
And Jay West- I feel like I don’t even know you right now. Are you sure there wasn’t a point where you were in favor of the reparations movement? And what’s this about a computer and free internet in every home in the hood? I think I need more explanation here, also.
July 31, 2008 at 6:57 pm
I may have favored SEPARATION at one point. But Never REPARATION.
As far as the computer idea. I guess my main point is that a formal acknowledgement of the legacy and continued impact of slavery on our society is a good thing. Once you acknowlede that, how can you not take steps to alleviate that inequality? I’m not necessarily opposed to some form reparation. But I don’t think a “sorry for slavery check” will solve anybody’s problems.
I think an official apology from the U.S. House leaves the door wide open for at least some discussion of that. But lets save it till after the election.
While I’m on the topic; am I the only person who is secretly concerned that if by some miracle Barrack makes it to the White House that many White Americans will feel that any obligation to confront the racial inequalities in this country will have been fulfilled?
PS. Rappers; TIMEOUT till November. Go find a quiet corner and be seen, not heard.