NEW YORK, New York — Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he is open to considering slavery reparations in New York City but will wait for the findings of an ongoing city study before endorsing a specific policy.
In an interview with The Root, Mamdani said slavery’s history and economic influence were not limited to the South. He noted that New York City was deeply involved in slavery and related commerce and said acknowledging that history is necessary before determining an appropriate response.
“I can’t give you an answer in advance of them,” Mamdani said of the study’s findings, adding that the examination is “critically important.”
The democratic socialist mayor’s comments stopped short of supporting direct cash payments or any particular reparations structure. The city’s review could consider several approaches, including housing assistance, community investment or other programs addressing documented discrimination.
Any race-based program would likely face a federal legal challenge. In June, the Justice Department moved to intervene in a lawsuit challenging Evanston, Illinois’ housing reparations program. Federal officials argue that eligibility based primarily on race violates the Equal Protection Clause and Fair Housing Act. Evanston disputes that position and describes its program as a remedy for documented housing discrimination.
Mamdani said he would review New York’s findings before deciding what action, if any, his administration should pursue.
Sources:
- The Hill – MBFC Rating
- The Root – Unrated
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