Story perspectives

Court Allows Lawsuit Against Evanston's Reparations Program to Proceed

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

A federal court allowed a lawsuit against Evanston, Illinois, over its reparations program to proceed.
Judicial Watch, a conservative group, says the $25,000 payments to Black residents and their descendants violate the Equal Protection Clause.
Evanston has issued $25,000 to 44 residents, totaling $3.47 million.
The city plans to defend the lawsuit vigorously.
Nearby, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is organizing a forum to discuss reparations for Black residents.

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Story summary

A federal court allowed a lawsuit against Evanston, Illinois, over its reparations program to proceed.
Judicial Watch, a conservative group, says the $25,000 payments to Black residents and their descendants violate the Equal Protection Clause.
Evanston has issued $25,000 to 44 residents, totaling $3.47 million.
The city plans to defend the lawsuit vigorously.
Nearby, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is organizing a forum to discuss reparations for Black residents.