State CCRR to host hearing on impact of slavery, discrimination
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – The New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies (NYSCCRR) will hold a public hearing Tuesday in Rochester at the Memorial Art Gallery at 4 p.m. The hearing will provide a platform for the public to share personal testimonies and insights on the enduring harms and impact of slavery and institutional discrimination on the descendants of the Enslaved and African Americans. Those who attend are invited to share their stories and describe how the impact of slavery affected their lives.
The hearing will explore the long-term impact of urban renewal policies that resulted in the widespread displacement of Black communities in Rochester and across New York State.
Those with NYSCCRR say the demolition of the Clarissa Street neighborhood exemplifies how discriminatory policies erased the Black community and contributed to the loss of generational wealth. They went on to say the construction of the Inner Loop further isolated Black neighborhoods, deepening racial disparities in housing, and economic opportunity.
Those who attend will get the opportunity to meet Dr. Seanelle Hawkins, Chair of the NYSCCRR, who has been charged to work on the statewide initiative. NYSCCRR, established under Senate Bill S1163A, was signed into law in 2023 by Governor Kathy Hochul.
'It is essential community members not only share their experiences, but also put forth recommendations and ideas that will lead to remedies that will right the wrongs of slavery,' Dr. Seanelle Hawkins, Chair of the NYSCCRR, said. 'At previous hearings, we heard powerful testimonies about who has been harmed and who should receive reparations. Now, we seek todeepen our understanding of the policy solutions and systemic changes necessary to addressthese harms. Conversations with NYS residents are critical in shaping our recommendations toconfront the structural inequities rooted in slavery and systemic discrimination in New York State.'
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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