Mass. Legislation Could Authorize Study of Slavery’s Economic Legacy

by Steve LeBlanc, Associated Press , October 6, 2009

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Legislators in Massachusetts are considering a bill that would authorize a study of the financial impact and legacy of the African slave trade on the state. Pictured is the Massachusetts State House in Boston.

“I'm wondering about the purpose and the overall objective of the bill,” Gilmore said. “It seems to me that given the state of the economy and the concern about our future, we should be looking forward to positive issues rather than looking backward.”

Rushing concedes the state has a raft of more immediate concerns, but said that doesn't negate the importance of uncovering uncomfortable truths.

“It's very important that we tell the truth about our history,” said Rushing, one of only a handful of Black lawmakers on Beacon Hill. “Slavery gave this country a major economic advantage and we should talk about it.”

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