Russell City Reparative Justice Project Steering Committee Meeting Minutes - May 31, 2023
Russell City Reparative Justice Project (RCRJP) Committee Members in Attendance:
Elizabeth Sanchez, Priscilla Figueroa, Francesca Thomas, Michael D Johnson, Aiyana Knowles, Cindy Torres, Aisha Knowles, Carolyn Johnson, Gloria Moore, Michael V Johnson, Cathy Rodriguez, Toni Wynn, Marian Johnson, Velda Goe, Deborah Harriss
Facilitators in Attendance:
Dr. Kerby Lynch and Aisha Canfield, Ceres Policy Research
Opening, Roll Call & Reflection (6:00-6:15 PM)
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM, attendance was taken, and a quorum was confirmed. To open the meeting, committee members were provided the opportunity to begin with a moment of reflection. Members were then able to share their reflections with the larger group.
Review & Discussion: San Francisco State Research Draft Report (6:15-6:45 PM)
The committee engaged in a productive conversation regarding delivering feedback to the San Francisco State researchers, Dr. Liz Brown and Dr. George Baringer. Members expressed their viewpoints and discussed strategies to ensure the research aligns with the case for reparations. Economic calculations and adherence to United Nations guidelines were considered crucial factors in presenting the research. Committee members encouraged every member of the committee to review the draft 52-page report and provide feedback to the researchers by June 10, 2023.
Concerns & Constructive Feedback: Draft Research Report (6:45-7:00 PM)
The responsibility of facilitating subcommittee meetings was discussed, emphasizing providing constructive feedback on the research conducted by San Francisco State researchers. The committee acknowledged the significance of presenting the research in a manner that advances the mission of the Russell City Reparative Justice Project. Concerns were raised regarding historical inaccuracies and the overall tone of the report. Participants stressed the need for feedback that addresses these concerns while supporting the project's goals.
Budget Considerations and Dissatisfaction with Research (7:00-7:30 PM)
The conversation touched upon budget considerations and expressed dissatisfaction among some participants regarding the progress and quality of the research. Alternative methods for gathering information were suggested. The upcoming meeting on June 14th was highlighted as an opportunity for closure with the current researchers, as well as the possibility of working with a new subcontractor. The committee discussed the researchers' contractual obligations and the necessity of providing detailed feedback to fulfill the terms of the contract. Ensuring strong policy recommendations and addressing discrepancies or deficiencies in the research report was a crucial point of discussion.
Limited Availability: Historical, Factual Data from Russell City, Closing of the Meeting (7:30-8:00 PM)
The committee recognized the need for specific data about Russell City property transactions, business permits, churches, community organizations, utility information, property improvements, public health data, education records, etc., along with the names, addresses, and maps of affected residents is extremely difficult to access in one central location, if the data exists at all. Challenges related to sourcing the Russell City required data and limitations of available sources were also discussed. Dr. Lynch mentioned the City of Hayward was developing an online map to provide valuable information on property ownership, values, and land use history in Russell City. The committee emphasized the importance of considering the value of residential land rather than solely focusing on industrial land. The availability of an APN for property verification was noted. A draft of the map is anticipated to be completed in mid June.
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