In a significant move aimed at addressing historical injustices, the Palm Springs City Council has approved a $5.9 million fund to compensate Black and Latino families displaced from their homes in the 1960s.
The city council’s unanimous decision reflects a commitment to rectifying past wrongs suffered by these communities, specifically those from Section 14, a neighborhood situated on Native American land. This displacement resulted in numerous families losing their homes, leading to a prolonged struggle for acknowledgment and restitution.
Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein emphasized the significance of this decision, stating that the actions taken are both bold and vital, potentially fostering enduring benefits for the entire Palm Springs community. Notably, part of this strategy involves programs designed specifically to benefit former residents of the displaced neighborhood.
Despite the unanimous approval, details on the allocation of funds remain undecided, particularly concerning how much each family or individual will receive. Attorney Areva Martin, representing over 300 former residents and numerous descendants, has been at the forefront, advocating for prioritizing former Section 14 residents and descendants in these compensatory efforts.
The agreement also includes a substantial investment in community development, with $10 million earmarked for a first-time homebuyer assistance program and another $10 million for a community land trust. Additionally, a monument will be established to commemorate the neighborhood’s history, serving as a physical reminder of the community’s resilience and heritage.
Section 14’s history is marked by turmoil, with families recalling incidents of their homes being burned or demolished without prior notice. In 2021, Palm Springs made a formal apology for its role in these events, which led to a legal claim by the affected families. In their claim, they sought $2.3 billion, referencing the destructive impact as comparable to the infamous Black Wall Street tragedy in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Unlike the Tulsa incident, however, there were no reported fatalities resulting from the Palm Springs displacements.
The Palm Springs City Council’s decision to allocate funds for compensating affected families is a pivotal step in addressing past grievances. Through financial restitution and community-focused initiatives, the city aims to repair and foster a brighter future for those who once called Section 14 home.
Source: WSVN
