Towards Reconciliation: Healing the Deep-Seated Inequities of Racism
The scars of racism run deep in societies like America, marred by centuries of violence-induced inequity. I believe that, while valuable, attempts at rectification through feeble laws labeled as “Fair Housing,” “Civil Rights,” and “Equal Credit” fall short of addressing the systemic injustices that persist.
To truly right the wrongs caused by racism, we must be willing to dismantle and transform the entire system. Today, anti-racist regulations should aim for conciliation, leading to transformative changes that progressively erode racist structures over time.
Apologies and symbolic gestures alone are not enough; we need tangible and sustainable solutions that promote wealth-building and protect cultural identities. In a previous article, I wrote about how we need reconciliation before reparations. That, too, is relevant here. See the link at the end of this piece.
Drawing Inspiration from Truth and Reconciliation Commissions
Across the globe, forty-six countries have established structures similar to the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission. These commissions seek to heal deep divisions within their societies by addressing historical injustices. Some commissions have tackled the aftermath of violent dictatorships, civil wars, genocides, or ethnic cleansing.
The United States, with its own nightmarish history of racial oppression, can learn from these examples and consider establishing its own version of a “Reconciliation Commission.” However, if internal resistance poses challenges, as we know it will, seeking assistance from organizations like Canada’s International Center for Transitional Justice could be a viable option.
The Need for Rebalancing Wealth Accumulation
America’s social fabric remains unstable, marked by pockets of explosive tension and violent breakdowns. To promote harmony and social stability, it is essential to address the imbalances in wealth accumulation that mirror the effects of apartheid.
Merely dismantling explicit discriminatory policies is insufficient. As we have seen with the spate of reversals of progressive laws by the Supreme Court, we know how easily these can be overturned when there is no societal acceptance of the core problems. We must actively work towards a more equitable society where opportunities for wealth accumulation are rebalanced and distributed fairly. By doing so, we can foster a harmonious and socially cohesive Union.
Moving Beyond Superficial Measures
Apologies and symbolic gestures, like an equity and diversity staff or token black in a company, are mostly false steps to rectify the issue. They are not enough to rectify the deep-rooted effects of racism. True anti-racist solutions must go beyond performative acts and offer tangible results that promote sustainable change.
This entails providing brown communities with access to land, capital, and resources necessary for their advancement. Reconstruction efforts should be comprehensive and holistic, supporting marginalized communities' economic, educational, and social development.
Embracing Transformation for a Brighter Future
Addressing the deep-seated inequities of racism requires a commitment to long-term change. Reconciliation cannot be achieved through cosmetic adjustments or token gestures. Instead, we must embrace transformational changes that dismantle racist structures, redistribute wealth, and create opportunities for marginalized communities. By actively working towards a society that values equality, justice, and cultural preservation, we can build a better future for all.
Achieving reconciliation and rectifying the deep-seated inequities caused by racism requires bold and comprehensive action. Alongside establishing a “Reconciliation Commission,” it is crucial to create a federally established Department of Conciliation with a dedicated reconciliation and reparations department.
This department would focus on returning stolen lands to the descendants of families and providing legislative support and law enforcement to protect those who have been compensated for their losses. Implementing these measures will not be without challenges, as some individuals who currently hold land acquired through historical injustices may resist restitution.
However, acknowledging that the Doctrine of Discovery and other unjust practices led to the appropriation of colonial lands is a crucial starting point. With approximately ninety-eight percent white ownership of rural lands in America, it is evident that the imbalances caused by these crimes persist today. While it may not be feasible for all white individuals to return all the lands stolen, ignoring this imbalance is not an option.
Alternative approaches, such as federal government intervention and support, can be explored, such as offering tax credits to black landowners or providing capital to former landowners for investment purposes. By taking these steps, we can move closer to a more just and equitable society.
The journey towards reconciliation and healing the wounds inflicted by racism requires more than surface-level efforts. It demands transformative changes that challenge the very foundations of our societal systems. Establishing a “Reconciliation Commission” inspired by successful international models can provide a platform for truth-telling, healing, and moving towards a more harmonious society.
We must rebalance wealth accumulation and provide tangible resources to marginalized communities, ensuring their advancement and empowerment. By embracing a holistic approach and actively pursuing lasting change, we can create a society that is equitable, just, and socially stable for generations to come.
Much of what I have written in this article and many more policy proposals can be found in Chapter 7 of my book.
