Dear President Scaman and Village Trustees,
I strongly encourage you to move ahead immediately to implement the recommendations made by the Oak Park Reparations Task Force. The task force has already done the detailed work required for the village to craft a thoughtful and detailed apology (despite Trustee Robinson’s request for more research, which is unnecessary and is perceived as a delaying tactic). I believe that further delays will inflict additional emotional harm on the Black members of our community. Let’s start being the change we want to see today.
If authorization is needed, please authorize Kevin Jackson to move forward on those parts of the recommendation that can be implemented immediately. While some items may take time to put in place, an apology should be issued in 2024 and other recommendations can get underway.
I’ve learned that the task force did not contact Faith Julian and therefore does not know her wishes regarding her home. I also now know that the village is in ongoing discussions with her. I’m grateful for this. I’m embarrassed that we put Percy Julian’s name on one of our middle schools while his daughter continues to struggle to save his home from a tax sale.
Please do continue to work with her and her niece to find a solution that allows her to continue to live in her home, free of this stress, and create a plan for the future to honor the accomplishments of both of her parents. We can do this in 2024, as well, if Ms. Julian is in agreement.
Please understand that stalling and moving slowly can cause further harm. Let’s not drag our feet.
Kris Hansen
Oak Park