Who is tired of being told we owe African-Americans some kind of restitution for what our ancestors have done? For decades, I have listened to claims that they are due some form of payment for the oppression that their people endured during slavery. I would like to know why they feel they have a right to restitution. I can hardly believe that the people trying to obtain money were actually alive when slavery existed.

Mr. Williams asked the question, What would you expect if the person sitting next to you intentionally injured you so that you were hospitalized? He then asks us If a group of people wronged you, would your expectations be any different? Of course you would expect some form of justice, but listen to the questions and look around. Can you think of anyone around today that actually participated in slavery? I can’t. So why should any of us feel guilty for something we never had any part in?

Mr. Williams also uses the $20,000 given to the Japanese-Americans during the Reagan Administration for their oppression to show further injustice towards African-Americans, and feels they should receive some form of restitution as well. I don’t support either, but guilt most likely prompted Reagan to give them the money. After all, Reagan’s generation was involved in World War II. We, on the other hand, had nothing to do with slavery.

Advertisement

One more thing, Mr. Williams. I did as you asked and traced my family heritage. My ancestors were American-Indian and German. Following your logic, I should pay the Jewish people restitution, since my German ancestors oppressed the Jews. In return I should receive money, since my American-Indian ancestors were robbed of everything and oppressed, as were your ancestors. I guess I come out even.

Let me just say this, Mr. Williams. I will be accountable for my actions, and my actions alone. If I ever take part in anything as horrendous as slavery, then I deserve to pay restitution. Until then, lay off the guilt trips.

Senior, administration of justice