Community Leader Person of the Year Award by the Evanston Chamber of Commerce & Legislative Advocate
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Reparations Committee for taking the time to read my public comment. However, I must express my disappointment after hearing that the Reparations Committee saw no need to bring the ideas presented back for discussion. It is believed that the City of Evanston has done enough for displaced Black residents? This leaves me feeling concerned about the looming threat of gentrification. On a positive note, I'm glad to share that reparations funds will now be held in a “Black owned” bank, with $17M being transferred immediately. I was blown away by the magnitude of this allocation. I text Alderperson Bobby Burns to confirm! He confirmed it. Questions remain about the number of approved applicants still waiting and the duration of their wait. It's crucial to ensure that the math matches and that every approved applicant receives the support they deserve. Let's continue to push for transparency. My public comment to the Reparations Committee: Dear Tasheik Kerr & the Reparations Committee: I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to share my thoughts and ideas regarding the Wesley building, particularly in the context of our ongoing discussions about reparations. Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend the meeting in person or via Zoom due to prior commitments. However, I am fully available for further discussion or providing additional information as needed. The displacement of tenants due to developments like the Wesley building is a pressing issue that requires our attention. My proposal centers on the idea of the Reparations Committee purchasing the Wesley building to prevent further displacement and to address the needs of the affected tenants. Furthermore, I suggest exploring the possibility of purchasing other buildings to assist displaced Black residents who are being impacted by private developers aiming to gentrify the community. By taking proactive steps to acquire these properties, we can safeguard the rights and well-being of our community members while upholding the principles of reparations. Additionally, it would be beneficial for the Reparations Committee to consider a model where a percentage of ownership in these acquired buildings is given directly to the displaced residents. This approach can help prevent the Black community from being priced out of Evanston, thereby reducing forced displacement. I emphasize that I am not suggesting that these displaced tenants apply for a loan to acquire a percentage of ownership; rather, it should be given to them as a form of reparations. This approach aligns with the core principles of reparations, which seek to address past injustices and create a more equitable future. I am committed to supporting these initiatives and would welcome the opportunity to discuss them further with the Committee. Thank you for considering my input, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts on these matters. Sincerely, Meleika Gardner
