Department of Justice Warns of Investigation Against North Carolina County Over Proposed Reparations To Black Americans Descendants of Slaves

The Department of Justice has formally alerted municipal authorities in Buncombe County, North Carolina, that an investigation will ensue if reparations are granted to descendants of enslaved individuals. Local officials, including those in Asheville, have deliberated for three years on reparations aimed at aiding Black communities affected by systemic displacement, economic exclusion, and criminalization, particularly since the establishment of the Community Reparations Commission in 2022. Following the submission of a comprehensive report to the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners on September 2, the DOJ's Civil Rights Division promptly expressed concerns regarding potential violations of federal civil rights laws. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon cautioned that formal adoption of these recommendations might prompt rigorous legal scrutiny.The commission’s proposal includes various initiatives such as a Black wealth-building fund and enhancements to criminal justice, education, and healthcare sectors. The Asheville City Council is slated to consider these recommendations on September 9, yet no actions have been taken thus far. (Photo: Wikipedia Commons)