In a significant development, Asheville, North Carolina's ambitious reparations initiative has been shelved following a stern warning from Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for the DOJ Civil Rights Division.
Dhillon cautioned that the committee's recommendations, if enacted, would contravene federal civil rights statutes.
As reported by The Post Millennial, Matt Van Swol shared on X, "The Asheville NC Reparations Committee, which proposed giving Black mothers only free childcare, create a 'Black joy' fund and give Black teachers 'reparations pay' has now been completely abandoned after [Harmeet Dhillon] threatened a lawsuit against them WINNING!!!"
This statement underscores the contentious nature of the proposed measures and the legal challenges they faced.
On September 4, Dhillon addressed the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners in a letter, expressing concern over the recommendations put forth by the Asheville-Buncombe County Community Reparations Commission. She noted, "The U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division has recently become aware of concerning recommendations presented to you."
The final report, unveiled on September 2, 2025, outlined 38 recommendations across five key areas: criminal justice, economic development, education, health and wellness, and housing. Dhillon highlighted that the recommendations, if implemented, could breach federal civil rights laws, including the Fair Housing Act, Title VI, Title VII, and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
The letter further indicated that although the recommendations had not been formally adopted, there were indications of intent to do so, with over $2.9 million reportedly earmarked for their implementation.
Dhillon asserted, "My office will be closely monitoring your actions. To the extent these recommendations are formally adopted, you are now on notice that my office stands ready to investigate and enforce violations of federal civil rights laws to the fullest extent possible."
The committee's report included various recommendations aimed at fostering educational and cultural healing. It suggested that "Educational spaces must also foster emotional and cultural healing," advocating for support of Black Student Union groups and the provision of mental health resources for Black school stakeholders.
These resources would include both traditional and non-traditional modalities such as sound healing, music therapy, and equine therapy.
Another notable recommendation was the requirement for every K5 student to be taught by at least one Black teacher, extending this standard through middle and high school. Additionally, the report called for every school to have at least one administrator of color in a leadership role.
The establishment of a "Black Joy Fund" was also proposed to create "multidimensional, joy filled experiences and spaces that cultivate a healthy community."
The abandonment of Asheville's reparations plans raises questions about the balance between addressing historical injustices and adhering to existing legal frameworks. The situation highlights the complexities involved in implementing reparative measures within the confines of federal law, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and dialogue in pursuing such initiatives.
Login