4 months ago(From left) Committee Chair Robin Rue Simmons, committee member Bonnie Lockhart, Council Member Krissie Harris and assistant to the city manager Tasheik Kerr.
Evanston’s Reparations Committee Thursday announced that about $5 million has been disbursed so far to direct descendants and ancestors in the city’s effort to repair harms from discriminatory practices.
Ancestors – who lived in Evanston between 1919 and 1969 as adults and who were affected by housing discrimination practices such as redlining – have received $3,392,974.81 as of September, according to the committee, which met at the Morton Civic Center, 2100 Ridge Ave.
Direct descendants of Black residents who lived in Evanston from 1919 through 1969 have received $1,675,000, according to the committee.
The city has met with 71 of 80 direct descendants and they have received funds. Of the other nine, four asked the city to hold off, two have small affidavits pending – forms that allow next of kin to transfer property from a deceased family member – and two the city has been unable to contact.
“I think it’s a step in the right direction. It’s not the only step that we’re taking, but 71 of 80 is a big number, and that’s a big deal,” Second Ward Council Member Krissie Harris said.