Urban League CEO namd chair of the NYS Commission on Reparations Remedies

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — One of Rochester’s community leaders was sworn in as chair of the New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies.

New York State set up the commission to consider reparations to examine the institution of slavery in New York and its impact on Black residents today.

Dr. Seannelle Hawkins of Rochester was announced to be serving as a member of this commission. Dr. Hawkins is the president and CEO of the Urban League of Rochester, an organization that helps the disadvantaged secure economic self-reliance, power, and civil rights.

Dr. Hawkins posted a statement on the Urban League’s website and shared how grateful she was to be appointed.

“I am honored to serve on this esteemed Commission. Our shared goal is to deliver a thoroughly researched report to the temporary president of the senate, the speaker of the assembly, the minority leaders of the senate and the assembly, and the Governor of the State of New York, presenting concrete steps for New York State to pursue in the realms of reparations and racial justice. I hope that through our comprehensive findings and thoughtful recommendations, we can foster healing, reconciliation, and a more equitable future for all.”

The Commission held its first meeting on July 30, 2024. You can learn more about the commission here.

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