As a community, we recognize the historical injustices and systemic inequalities that have disproportionately affected certain neighborhoods in our city. It is our moral imperative to address these disparities and provide reparations to those who have been exploited and displaced.
From its founding, many neighborhoods in Richmond faced systemic disinvestment, neglect, and oppression. Naturally, these anti-working-class and anti-Black policies resulted in disparities in infrastructure, housing, and economic opportunities. Today, these disparities persist, perpetuating inequities along racial and class lines. In response, our reparations plan focuses on comprehensive community investments, grants, and expanded public services to address these historical injustices and promote equitable development across the city.
Our failure to address the historical injustices inflicted upon marginalized communities has left a legacy of disinvestment and inequality in Richmond's neighborhoods. This legacy manifests in disparities in infrastructure, housing quality, economic opportunities, and access to essential services. For too long, these systemic barriers have hindered the prosperity and well-being of residents, particularly those who have been historically oppressed and marginalized.
What we believe is that every resident of Richmond deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of race, class, or zip code. True freedom means liberation from the burdens of past injustices and the ability to pursue one's dreams without barriers or limitations. Yet, the reality is that many individuals and communities continue to face systemic barriers to success, rooted in centuries of discrimination and exploitation.
Our reparations plan seeks to address these disparities head-on through bold and transformative actions. We recognize that repairing the damage inflicted by decades of disinvestment and discrimination requires comprehensive and sustained efforts to uplift and empower marginalized communities. To tackle this legacy of injustice and inequality, we must implement a comprehensive set of strategies aimed at ensuring housing affordability, stability, and equity for all Richmond residents: