June 19

American calculation: Last year, June 19 officially becomes a federal holiday. It commemorates the day the last enslaved Americans learned of their freedom, marking the end of slavery. But is a vacation all the United States can do to right the wrongs of history?

The story

This weekend, people across the country will celebrate Juneteenth by supporting Black-owned businesses, attending local events and learning more about the importance of the holiday – which has gained prominence during nationwide protests in 2020 against police brutality. But some think the United States should do more.

Are we talking about…?

Repairs? Yes. Slavery was a main institution of American life for more than 400 years. And even after its end, Jim Crow Laws and Policies it has perpetuated segregation, racism and disenfranchisement in almost every aspect of life. And the few black Americans who were able to start getting rich were often terrorized or killed (see: the tulsa race massacre). The idea of ​​repairs was once a chimera. But it gained momentum as Americans across the country called on federal and local governments to take action on racial equality.

How would that work?

There is no clear path to follow yet. But the options being discussed include cash, housing subsidies, scholarships and baby bonds. The complication is a debate on who would qualify. Some experts say anyone who can prove their lineage goes back to former slaves should be included. But doing this research can be difficult and expensive for individuals. Others believe that the globally the toll that the legacy of slavery had on black Americans must be considered.

So where are things?

There has been very little action at the federal level. A House committee has passed a bill create a commission to study slavery and discrimination in the United States. But he hasn’t voted yet. Some state and local governments (see: California and Evanston, IL) take actions such as creating task forces or signing bills to take action. But others argue that the repairs would be too expensive and complicated to assume. Additionally, polls to have found that a majority of Americans are still against cash reparations.

theSkimm

The fact that June 16 became a national holiday was a positive but symbolic step. It has been nearly two centuries since slavery ended in the United States. But the effects are still being felt. The reparations are seen as a way to narrow the racial wealth gap that still exists in the United States. But the road to making it a reality is proving slow and difficult.

PS: Want to learn more about systemic racism in the United States? Click on here.

bookmarked

The weekend means more time to do the things you love. For many of us, it’s reading. But we can’t browse everything for you. So instead, we’re giving you an overview of the readings we’ve recorded, texted, and emailed to our friends…

You only have a short time. Are you using it correctly?…why the last two years have made how we spend our days a really big deal.

Why city life has suddenly become much more expensive… $50 Uber rides, DoorDash price hikes and other signs that the “golden age of candle-on-demand urban tech discounts” is over.

Anifa Mvuemba on the African Diaspora and Black Innovation…an inspiring interview with the avant-garde fashion designer.

Break time

Downtime doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Here is an idea to make the most of your weekend.

Father’s Day is this weekend. And while every dad and father figure is different, there’s no better time than now to show them how much you care. We have last minute gifts and subscription boxes they will love it. If you live nearby, grab a page from the Mother’s Day playbook and give it to her. sunday brunch. And for a year-round activity, Skimm manager Margo Ghertner recommends her favorite tradition: a father-daughter book club. (Here is some rec to start.)

PS: Want to know another way to show your support for dads this Father’s Day (and throughout the year)? Advocate for them to be included in family leave.

Eyes on: 2022 mid-terms

Midterm elections have a significant impact on policies that affect our daily lives. So we are here to help you Skim your ballot. And Skimm what happens next week…

Game state(s): On Tuesday, June 21there is primary elections in washington d.c. (Mayor) and Virginia (House), plus runoff in Georgia (To lodge).

The talker:

PS: The results of these elections belong to the voters. Click on here to learn more about how to make your vote count.