NIMH Rat Utopia: The Unseen Violence Against American Descendants of Slavery

The concept of violence is often associated with overt physical harm, but what about the subtle yet pervasive forms of violence that shape the lives of many? In this article, we will explore how American Descendants of Slavery (ADOS) experience an inherent violence that stems from policy, place, options, and limited movement. This violence has been perpetuated by a system designed to maintain racial segregation and economic exploitation.

Ta-Nehisi Coates' work highlights the notion that racism is not just a negative response from an individual or group, but a systemic issue that has led to the plunder of ADOS communities. The dismantling of housing projects in the 1990s is a stark example of this violence. By locking out working-class ADOS citizens from accessing affordable housing options, the government supported the continued struggle for those who were already poor.

The use of restrictive covenants, bombings, and other extralegal racist efforts further perpetuated this violence. This is not just a story of past injustices but an ongoing reality that continues to plague ADOS communities today. The denial of home loans to Black Americans throughout the country has meant that many have been denied access to first-class citizenship and the opportunities that come with it.

The demand for reparations by ADOS is not about revisiting past wrongs, but about acknowledging the ongoing realities of injury and plunder. It is a call for justice and accountability from a system that has perpetuated violence against them. The fight for reparations is not just about the past, but about creating a more equitable future for all.

In conclusion, the violence faced by ADOS is multifaceted and deeply ingrained in American society. It is time to acknowledge this violence and work towards creating a world where all individuals have access to equal opportunities and are treated with dignity and respect.

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