A church reparations planning group began its work in New Orleans earlier this summer. The group’s purpose is for predominantly white churches to reflect on their history and scripture, and then contribute to a reparations fund. The idea is to acknowledge past wrongs and take steps toward healing.
The Birth of Repair the Breach NOLA
This group, called Repair the Breach NOLA, consists of white churches studying their history and reflecting on scripture. They aim to raise money for a reparations fund, which a Black committee of scholars, ministers, anti-racist organizers, and cultural visionaries will manage. This committee will decide how best to use the funds for repairing the damage caused by historical and ongoing racial injustices. The group focuses on three primary breaches: spiritual—between God and us; relational—between Black and white people; and financial—the generational racial wealth gap.
Progress and Challenges
The group meets every other week and has formed a solid planning committee and a strong nucleus for the Black group responsible for distributing funds. They have established a fiscal agent, created a website, and drafted mission and vision statements. The group has also compiled resources, including books, films, and plays, to guide their work.
However, reaching this point has not been without challenges. Initially, the group struggled with whether to use the term “reparations,” a word often loaded with controversy. Reparations have only become a “bad word” when applied to African Americans and whites. In other contexts—such as with farmers, FEMA, insurance companies, and personal injury lawyers—reparations are simply about “making people whole.”
Adapting to New Orleans’ Unique Context
At first, the group considered adopting a successful church reparations plan from Lansing, Michigan. However, recognizing the uniqueness of New Orleans, they decided to tailor their approach to the local context. New Orleans’ communities and churches operate differently, requiring a customized plan.
Most participants in the Repair project have undergone training in Undoing Racism by the People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond. This shared training provides the group with a common understanding of systemic racism, white supremacy, and the importance of accurate history. The next in-person training session is scheduled for December 6-8, 2024.
Navigating Group Dynamics
Despite their shared values and theological orientation, the group is still feeling each other out. In many anti-racist groups of white people, there is often a tendency for individuals to prove their anti-racist credentials. This dynamic can create tension, even when cloaked in the language of humility. Strong, passionate personalities dominate the group, which can lead to friction but also drive progress.
Next Steps: Presenting the Reparations Idea
The group’s next concrete step is presenting the idea of reparations to various churches. They may start with a small cluster of churches: one Episcopal, one Baptist, and one Methodist. However, the governance of each denomination differs, raising questions about where to begin and how to handle inevitable resistance. People may argue that “it was a long time ago,” or that “the task is too big,” or that “individuals today should not be held responsible for historical injustices.” The group has already brainstormed responses to these objections.
Wrestling with Difficult Questions
As white people, members of the group must wrestle with profound questions. How have they benefited, and how do they continue to benefit, from wealth stolen over centuries? Are reparations a precondition for reconciliation or even salvation? In their church, Trinity Episcopal, members often confess their sins but rarely repent. The group must consider whether repentance requires reparations and if equity is necessary for right relationships.
The Heart of the Matter
The group must also examine their motivations. Are they seeking repair out of guilt, a desire for forgiveness, or a longing for community transformation? They must ask themselves if they are trying to control their assets even as they give them away. Jesus taught, “Where your wealth is, there your heart will be also.” This teaching challenges the group to consider where their hearts truly lie.
Moving Forward: The Hard Part Begins
This is the group’s second report on the church reparations project. While their vision, mission, and structure have materialized quickly, the hard part—implementation—now begins. The group hopes to document their progress, including any missteps, to help others who may join or follow in their footsteps avoid repeating the same mistakes.
Repairing the breach between Black and white New Orleanians is a monumental task. However, with determination, self-reflection, and a commitment to justice, Repair the Breach NOLA aims to make a meaningful impact. The journey ahead will be challenging, but the group remains committed to its mission of healing the deep wounds of racial division in New Orleans.