A Memphis pastor has launched a petition against a bill in Tennessee that would prevent the study of reparations for descendants of slaves. The bill, sponsored by State Sen. Brent Taylor, prohibits local governments from exploring or implementing reparations, stating that tax dollars should not be spent researching this issue. Reverend Earle Fisher, who started the petition, argues that the issue is not about money but about maintaining racial and economic inequities. Taylor believes the matter should be resolved at the national level and local government should not be involved. Fisher points out that with a surplus in the state budget, funds could be allocated for this important issue. The bill is set for a vote in the House next Wednesday. The petition against the bill has already garnered over 500 signatures in two days. Fisher believes that the bill is being driven by ideology and an unwillingness to address the truth about historical racial injustices. He argues that the state has the financial means to address this issue and that it should not be left solely to the federal government. The petition opposing the bill can be found online for those who wish to voice their support. The debate over reparations in Tennessee is sure to continue as the bill makes its way through the legislative process.
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Opposition arises against proposed Tennessee bill to ban slavery reparations
