Proposed reparations bills leave out cash payments; Bakersfield leaders say closing wealth gap should be priority

Mikhala Armstrong
·2 min read

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Last week, a slate of reparations bills was introduced by state lawmakers to address reparations and the legacy of racial inequity in California.

Some proposals to address reparations include policies like the state issuing a formal apology for historically discriminatory actions and creating a new state agency to oversee reparations and restitution for property seized through eminent domain. However, many questions remain as to how this can be accomplished as the state faces a massive budget deficit.

Bakersfield leaders said there should be one aim for the legislation: justice.

Reparations: Let’s Talk About It

“We need justice, and reparations is just one of the ways of getting reparative justice,” said Pastor and Community Activist Rev. Ralph Anthony.

With lawmakers leaving out direct payments as a form of reparations in the 14-bill package and instead calling for an apology. Some question if you can truly call it reparations at all.

“Apologizing without action, that does nothing, and it’s an apology coming too long from the 1800s into the 21st century of 2024,” said Executive Director, The African American Network of Kern County, Dee Slade.

Anthony agreed and said this is time for California to make a change.

“California has a great opportunity in these times to change things for the better and quit this acting like fools,” said Anthony.

WATCH: Full discussion with Bakersfield leaders about California’s reparations proposals

In a poll, Black voters favored cash payments, but opposition was widespread among other groups, which is why some say leaving it out was a mistake.

“They don’t really understand what it is all about. They just get upset because they think the state is giving away money to people, they think don’t deserve it,” said Community Leader Ron Littlejohn Sr.

There is an enormous racial wealth gap between Black and white people in the U.S., so some hope lawmakers prioritize access to balance out that gap when considering reparations.

“To throw that carrot, that caveat at a cultural group, that represents more than a handout, we deserve a hand up. Open up the doors for us to be at the table,” said Slade.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.