The Northampton Reparations Study Commission convened on January 7, 2024, to discuss the development of a survey aimed at understanding racialized harm within the community. The meeting focused on crafting questions that would effectively capture residents' experiences with discrimination and the impact of race on their daily lives.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the survey's structure, particularly the demographic information to be collected. Commissioners emphasized the importance of gathering data on age, identity, and employment status to better understand the diverse perspectives of respondents. The first part of the survey will include demographic questions, while subsequent sections will delve into personal experiences of racial discrimination and ideas for reparative actions.

One of the key questions proposed was whether individuals have experienced discrimination based on their race or ethnicity in Northampton. This question was deemed central to the survey's purpose, as it aims to highlight the lived experiences of community members. The commissioners debated the wording and order of questions, ensuring they would resonate with a broad audience, including those who may not identify as people of color.

The commission also discussed the inclusion of questions targeting all residents, regardless of race, to gather a comprehensive view of community dynamics. Suggestions included asking white participants if they have witnessed acts of discrimination, which could foster a deeper understanding of racial issues in Northampton.

As the meeting progressed, the commissioners considered various scenarios where racialized harm might occur, such as in educational settings, workplaces, and public spaces. They aimed to create a survey that not only identifies instances of discrimination but also encourages open dialogue about the experiences of all community members.

The commission plans to refine the survey further, incorporating feedback from both commissioners and the broader community. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the survey effectively captures the complexities of racialized harm and informs future reparative actions in Northampton. The next steps will involve finalizing the survey questions and preparing for community outreach to gather diverse perspectives on this critical issue.