This measure says the United States has a moral and legal duty to provide reparations for the crime of enslaving Africans and for the lasting harm this has caused millions of Black people in the country . It is a formal statement that recognizes the damage from slavery and points to the need for repair. The text does not lay out specific programs, amounts, or steps; it focuses on recognizing the obligation and the ongoing harm .

• Who is affected: Black Americans whose lives are still impacted by the legacy of slavery; communities discussing reparations; policymakers.
• What changes: This is a statement of recognition. It does not create new programs or payments by itself, but it signals support for reparations efforts.
• When: It takes effect as a formal statement if adopted, without setting timelines for actions .