Gov. Kathy Hochul approves slavery reparations panel in N.Y., calls on state to embrace ‘hard’ conversation

NEW YORK — Legislation to create a New York commission to study reparations for the descendants of slaves was approved Tuesday by Gov. Kathy Hochul, who called on New Yorkers to “rebuke and not excuse our role in benefiting from the institution of slavery.” Hochul, a Democrat, signed the bill at a ceremony on the Upper West Side of Manhattan six months after the state Legislature passed the plan. The governor said the commission would make it “possible to have a conversation — a reasoned debate — about what we want the future to look like.” × This page requires Javascript. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.