In a recent government meeting, community leaders and activists voiced urgent calls for accountability and reparations related to the historical impacts of urban renewal in the Old Fourth Ward. A member of the Coalition For Atonement and Repair emphasized the need for the city to acknowledge past harms and take concrete steps towards healing, stating that without an official apology and action, meaningful change remains elusive.

The discussion highlighted a significant moment in 2021 when Alderwoman Ellie Turney sponsored a vote to repeal the city's exclusionary urban renewal code, a move seen as a first step towards addressing the long-standing grievances of affected communities. However, the promised apology has yet to materialize, prompting frustration among advocates who argue that the city must commit to repairing the damage caused by urban renewal initiatives.

Participants in the meeting underscored the devastating consequences of these policies, describing them as having displaced, deceived, and harmed the community. The urgency of the situation was palpable, with calls for immediate solutions and a commitment to accountability resonating throughout the discussions. As the Coalition For Atonement and Repair continues to advocate for these changes, the community remains hopeful for a future where past injustices are recognized and addressed.