Back in the 1960s, 50 Black families were forcibly displaced from their homes in an area of Athens, Georgia, known as Linnentown. The descendants of those
District 1 Commissioner Patrick Davenport went as far as to call the resolution an “insult” and, though he voted for it, he said he does not understand why Linnentown is “being put on a pedestal” when there are more recent incidents of similar actions against Black communities.
“I think this resolution is an insult to all the people who have suffered grievances by the government,” said Davenport.
Prior to Davenport’s comments, several other commissioners including District 9 Commissioner Ovita Thornton said that this resolution is a first step, but more needs to be addressed on the issues that allowed the dismantling of Linnentown.
Henry Queen | Staff Writer
The resolution states that the countyâs Justice and Memory Committee will determine the amount of intergenerational wealth lost to urban renewal, and make yearly recommendations to the mayor and commission for redress projects including affordable housing, economic development and public transportation. It also states that the county will work with the University System of Georgia to recognize Linnentownâs legacy and install a âwall of recognition.â
In addition, the county will seek a partnership with the USG to create a Center on Slavery, Jim Crow and the Future of Athens Black Communities.
Resolution resolved
The commission unanimously passed the resolution during a Tuesday special called session. Earlier this month, Mayor Kelly Girtz signed a proclamation officially apologizing for the countyâs role in destroying Linnentown.
Athens mayor signs apology in recognition of Linnentown, county set to vote on resolution for reparations for former residents redandblack.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from redandblack.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.