Senate Bill 469 seeks to establish Maryland Reparations Commission for descendants of enslaved people

The Education, Energy, and Environment Committee of the Maryland General Assembly convened on February 20, 2025, to discuss the Harriet Tubman Community Investment Act, also known as Senate Bill 469. The meeting highlighted the bill's aim to establish a Maryland Reparations Commission, which would provide compensatory benefits to the descendants of enslaved individuals in Maryland.

Senator Benson opened the session by emphasizing the significance of the bill, framing it as a moral imperative to address the historical injustices faced by African Americans. She articulated the bill's intent to rectify the harm caused by systemic racism and inequality, asserting that it represents a crucial step toward equity and access to resources for vulnerable populations.

Key provisions of the bill were outlined, including eligibility criteria for descendants of enslaved individuals, the composition of the commission, and its responsibilities. The commission would consist of members from various organizations, including the Maryland Historical Society and Historically Black Colleges, and would be tasked with administering benefits and collaborating with state agencies.

Several witnesses provided testimony in support of the bill. Vincent Frey, representing the American Descendants of Slavery Advocacy Foundation, advocated for amendments to ensure accurate targeting of reparations and the inclusion of an economist on the commission to assess the financial implications of reparations. Tony Pierce echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for rigorous economic analysis to understand the costs associated with slavery and its long-term effects on Maryland's economy.

Mayor LaJanne Cephas of Cambridge expressed strong community support for the bill, highlighting its potential to address economic disparities in areas historically impacted by slavery. She emphasized the importance of directing funds toward sustainable housing and minority-owned businesses.

Angela Denise Wilson, a direct descendant of enslaved individuals, shared her family's history and underscored the importance of acknowledging the past to foster healing and justice. Tonette Cuffy, a fifth-generation niece of Harriet Tubman, passionately urged the committee to pass the bill, framing it as a necessary step toward addressing the generational trauma stemming from slavery.

The committee concluded the session with a call for a favorable report on Senate Bill 469, recognizing it as an opportunity to honor the legacy of Harriet Tubman and take decisive action toward equity and justice for Maryland's African American community. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to addressing historical injustices and fostering a more equitable future for all Marylanders.