SOUTH BEND, Ind. - The South Bend Common Council will form a special committee to address racial reparations in the community, according to Common Council President Sharon McBride. Dr. Darryl Heller, Director of the Indiana University South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center will chair the special committee.

The committee will work with stakeholders to address issues raised on Bill No. 22-61: A Resolution Calling for Reparatory Justice.

The bill will be debated at Monday night's council meeting.

On January 24, U.S. Senator Cory Booker introduced Senate Bill 40, which would establish a commission to vet proposals aimed at African American reparations.

Over 190 organizations across the United States have endorsed the bill, McBride said.

The special committee in South Bend would follow Senate Bill 40 and other plans to inform the South Bend Common Council.

“I commend President Sharon McBride for her leadership in forming this special committee and thank Dr. Darryl Heller for stepping up to chair it,” said Mayor James Mueller. “I can think of no better person to lead this important work than Dr. Heller given his expertise, thoughtfulness and constructive leadership. I look forward to working with the Common Council and this special committee to advance racial justice in South Bend and ensure shared opportunities for all.”

Read Bill No. 22-61 below: