NEW YORK, NY – The New York City Council is launching a multi-pronged approach to tackle rising crime rates while also addressing historical and ongoing racial injustices. Among the proposed solutions are bills aimed at removing controversial statues and artwork, establishing a Truth, Healing, and Reconciliation process related to the city’s history of slavery, and setting up educational “freedom trails.”
The motion comes at a time annually when city officials and progressive local leaders nationwide target Christopher Columbus in the weeks ahead of the annual Columbus Day holiday.
One bill mandates the Commission on Racial Equity to initiate a process to investigate and document New York City’s involvement in slavery. The goal is to provide historical context, empower affected communities, and recommend preventative measures against future injustices. The Commission is expected to conduct public hearings and engagement activities and will publish a report on its findings.
Another bill directs the Public Design Commission (PDC) to formulate a plan for the removal of city artwork depicting figures who were slave owners, economically benefitted from slavery, or were involved in systemic crimes against indigenous peoples or crimes against humanity. Should a piece of artwork meet these criteria and yet remain, the PDC would be required to install an explanatory plaque next to it. The Department of Transportation will also work with the Department of Education to install plaques near schools named after individuals who meet these criteria.
Additionally, the Council is exploring the creation of a New York City “freedom trail,” along with a Lower Manhattan-specific trail. These walking tours would highlight sites associated with the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. A task force, comprising public officials, scholars, and representatives from relevant organizations, will be established for this purpose. This group will be required to meet at least quarterly, hold public meetings, and submit a report to the Mayor and the Speaker of the Council within a year of the final appointment to the task force.
The proposed measures signify the city’s intention to reconcile with its historical injustices while managing the current issues affecting its residents.