Join the Fight for Justice: Washington State Reparations Now!
Our Urgent Mission
Wareparationsnow.org is igniting Washington State's groundbreaking movement to establish the Charles Mitchell Commission for Slavery Reparations. We're demanding justice, acknowledgement, and a brighter future for an estimated 400,000 African American descendants of those brutally enslaved in U.S. Chattel Slavery.
The Inspiring Legacy of Charles Mitchell
The proposed Commission is named in honor of Charles Mitchell. In 1860, a 12-year-old enslaved boy named Charles Mitchell arrived in Olympia, Washington Territory. Despite his youth, Mitchell possessed an indomitable spirit that would change history. Risking everything for freedom, he courageously escaped via the Puget Sound Underground Railroad, finding sanctuary in Victoria, B.C., Canada. Mitchell's brave journey from chains to freedom embodies the resilience and hope that drive our mission today.
Whether you are an activist, artist, influencer, researcher, journalist, student, government official, scientist, business owner, religious or community leader, academician, accountant, philanthropist, LGBTQIA+ community member, educator, union member, attorney, physician, politician, engineer, employer, employee, Democrat, Republican, Independent, retiree, or just a citizen who wants to join, advance, and learn more about this historic reparations movement, welcome to Wareparationsnow.org!
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What Are Reparations?
The United Nations’s Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparations for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Law and Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law outline the international legal framework for the right to a remedy and reparations.
According to the Basic Principles, States are under legal obligation to provide reparations for gross violations attributable to them, as are persons found liable for relevant war-time violations. States are also obligated to endeavor to provide repair and redress for victims in circumstances where those directly responsible are unwilling or unable to meet their obligations, particularly through the establishment of reparations programs.
Five Forms of Reparations Recognized by the UN Basic Principles
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Restitution: Restoring a victim's rights, property, or citizenship.
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Rehabilitation: Providing psychological and physical care.
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Compensation: Financial payments for damages suffered, such as loss of income, property, or opportunities.
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Satisfaction: Acknowledging wrongdoing through apologies, memorials, admitted guilt, etc.
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Guarantees of Non-Repetition: Reforming laws and civil and political structures to prevent future violence.
Our Progress: Building Momentum for Change
2024
The Seattle-King County NAACP and WENA unite forces, bringing powerful advocacy to the forefront of the reparations’ movement.
California and New York created and launched similar efforts.
June 2024
In a landmark decision, at the 2024 Convention the Washington State Democratic Party adopts reparations into its official platform, signaling growing mainstream support.
Present Day
A meticulously crafted executive order to create a commission in Washington State to study reparations for
descendants of those formerly enslaved in the U.S. sits on the Governor's desk, poised to make history.
How Reparations Incite Change
Reparations are not a handout - they are a long-overdue moral imperative. Here's why they matter:
1.
Healing Generational Trauma
The scars of slavery run deep, affecting health, wealth, and well-being across generations. Reparations provide resources for healing and recovery.
2.
Acknowledging Historical Atrocities
By formally recognizing the horrors of slavery and its ongoing impacts, we take a crucial step toward national reconciliation.
3.
Creating Equitable Opportunities
Systemic racism has created vast disparities in education, housing, and employment. Reparations level the playing field for a more just future.
4.
Breaking the Cycle of Injustice
By addressing past wrongs, we lay the groundwork to prevent future injustices and create a truly equitable society.
Meaningful Next Steps!
1. Demand Justice
Thank the CAAA Commissioners for unanimously voting to endorse the draft EO which now sits on the Governor's desk, waiting for a signature. Contact CAAA Commissioners
3. Join Our Growing Movement
Sign up now for critical updates on the Charles Mitchell Commission. Be part of history in the making! Sign Up for Urgent Updates
4. Amplify Our Message
Share this vital information with your networks. Post on social media, discuss with friends and family. Justice delayed is justice denied - help us spread the word!
5. Deepen Your Understanding
Immerse yourself in "From Here to Equality" by William A. Darity Jr. and A. Kirsten Mullen. This seminal work lays out a comprehensive, evidence-based plan for reparations that can transform our society. Start Educating Yourself
About WENA
The Washington Equity Now Alliance (WENA) is the tireless engine driving this historic movement forward.
We are:
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A fearless non-partisan, non-profit 501c4 organization
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Dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers in education, employment, and enterprise
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Committed to advancing equity for all underserved communities, including people of color, women, the disabled, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and veterans.
We are also in the process of creating a program for prospective college students and college admissions staff to better understand how affirmative action is alive and well despite the SCOTUS decision.
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Our Track Record of Impact
Spearheaded Initiative 1000, gathering over 350,000 signatures in support of equity
Launched Initiative 1300, the Manuel Ellis Washington Anti-Discrimination Act
Successfully campaigned for EO 22-02, reinstating critical affirmative action measures in Washington State
Empowered nearly 1,000 state employees with essential training on SCOTUS decisions and maintaining equitable practices
Reparations Updates And Information
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