Reparations for Lakeland Now!
About the Campaign
The Reparations for Lakeland Now! campaign seeks justice for the historical harms inflicted on Lakeland, Maryland. Founded in 1905 and forced to incorporate in the City of College Park in 1945, Lakeland was once a vibrant African American community. Lakeland was devastated by 'Urban Renewal' in the 1970’s and 1980’s, losing 104 of 150 single family dwellings.
5 Pillars of Community
Lakeland once embodied all the pillars of a healthy urban environment. Founded as a self-sustaining town, its citizens worked together over generations and built five pillars of a healthy urban habitat. Together, the Lakeland community created an atmosphere of trust and respect, ensuring the well being of all.
“We were loved, we were safe.” ”
As one descendant recalled, "We were loved, we were safe." This sense of belonging and security was the cornerstone of Lakeland's vibrant community.
The Reparations for Lakeland Now! campaign calls for Lakeland’s Five Pillars of Community to be restored. These pillars include:
Housing - Affordable, build with character, self-built
Nature - Lake, woods, yards, gardens, livestock
Learning - Excellent and culturally-appropriate schools, value-based youth organizations
Gathering - community spaces, picnics, parties, vibrant organizations
Connectivity - economic exchange, black-owned businesses, public transportation.
Restorative Action Priorities
The Campaign is currently focused on three Reparative Action Priorities (RAP) as Developed by the Spring 2024 Consensus Convening of Lakelanders:
Secure the Community Benefits Agreement (CBA)
Develop access to Lake Artemesia from the center of Lakeland
Secure Land Back for housing (affordable housing)
“5 Conditions of Reparations” from our webinar, “Reparations as Peacebuilding”
Progress and Impact
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024, the Restorative Justice Commission of the City of College Park formally acknowledged its collaborations with the Braxton Institute. Since then, we've made significant strides in our campaign for reparations for Lakeland. Through town halls, book clubs, community dialogues, and healing spaces, we've deepened understanding of Lakeland's history of resistance and the importance of reparations as a path to peace. We've integrated a trauma-informed lens into local leadership development and forged a consensus on the Reparative Action Priorities, outlining the next steps for our campaign.
Building National Connections
Lakeland's reparations movement has gained national recognition. We've been invited to participate in three national reparations convenings, including the recent First Repair gathering in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I was honored to serve as chaplain and spiritual caregiver at this event, connecting Lakeland with reparations leaders from across the country.
Get involved
Become a part of the Reparations for Lakeland Now! campaign and help us create a more just and equitable future for our community. There are many ways to get involved, including:
Donating: Your financial support is essential to our efforts.
Volunteering: Lend your time and skills to our various initiatives.
Advocating: Spread awareness and advocate for reparations in your community.
Attending events: Participate in our town halls, workshops, and other events.