URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Illinois African Descent-Citizens Reparations Commission held a public hearing Saturday at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts in Urbana. The event brought together local leaders, professors, researchers, and community members to discuss the historical and ongoing impacts of slavery on African American descendants in Illinois.

The Urbana stop is one of several planned across the state as the Commission works toward developing a report for the General Assembly. That report, due next year, will outline findings and policy recommendations aimed at ensuring equity and opportunity for African American communities.

Established by state law in 2021, the Commission is part of the Department of Central Management Services and is composed of state officials, public members, and reparations advocates—most of whom must be descendants of enslaved people. It is one of only a few such commissions in the country.

Champaign County Recorder of Deeds/County Clerk Aaron Ammons was one of many speakers at the event, including Associate Professor Sundiata Keita Cha-Jua, and State Representative Carol Ammons. Its responsibilities include holding hearings, educating the public, and addressing issues such as equitable access to housing, vocational training, state contracts, and corporate accountability for historical ties to slavery. The Commission must submit annual reports to the Governor and legislature, with findings made available to the public online.

Officials say the input gathered from events like Saturday’s will be crucial in shaping future policy proposals.