January 16, 2025
Conversation of Understanding on reparations commission is Jan. 23
A virtual Conversation of Understanding on Thursday, Jan. 23, will focus on the work of the state’s African-Descent-Citizens Reparations Commission (ADCRC).
The commission is charged with surveying the state procurement process to make recommendations, hold meetings, provide reports, and discuss and perform actions concerning:
- Preserving African American neighborhoods and communities.
- Building and developing vocational centers for people of African descent-citizens.
- Advocating for proportional economic representation in state contracts.
- Creating and enforcing an Illinois Slavery Era Disclosure Bill.
The free, virtual discussion is set for noon to 1:30 p.m. via Teams. Faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members are invited to join the discussion that will focus on critical issues regarding equity and justice in the country and addressing those issues within the SIU System. Those interested in attending are asked to register via Teams.
Commission board members who will participate are:
- Rikeesha Phelon, associate provost of strategy, communications and engagement, SIU School of Medicine, and ADCRC board member.
- Marvin Slaughter Jr., ADCRC board chair.
- Ted Williams III, ADCRC board member.
A Q&A session will follow the discussion during which participants can share their thoughts in an open, respectful conversation. Questions may be submitted before or during the event by email to doris.williams@siu.edu.
The Conversation of Understanding series began in June 2020. This is the third session for the 2024-25 academic year. The SIU System President’s Office, the SIU System Diversity Advisory Council and SIU School of Medicine are discussion sponsors.