Slave-related reparations could soon be distributed in Amherst

AMHERST, MA (WGGB/WSHM) – We’re one step closer to seeing slave-related reparations paid out to members of the Amherst community and the next vote on the matter is slated for next week. A five person reparations committee is expected to form in a matter of time and the town council is expected to take a vote on the order for that committee on Monday, which would lead the way to some newfound resources for a community that wants them. “It would definitely make me feel, as a business owner, a lot more secure economically,” said Khayyam Mahdi with Global Cuts International World of Barber Styling. For 25 years, Mahdi has been cutting hair in Amherst. His shop is often full of customers who could also get some cash thanks to his town, which is ready to repay some of their Black community members for the pain of the past. “We’ve tried to make the point again and again to the town council and to the community at-large that Black businesses help to anchor the presence of Black people in this town,” said Dr. Amilcar Shabazz, secretary of the Amherst Black Business Association. The town is listening as Amherst slave reparations...