"The Secular Case for Reparations" by Cynthia McDonald - Virtual Sunday Platform

The Secular Case for Reparations
Cynthia McDonald
Social Worker - Political Advocate - Black Nonbelievers Lead Organizer Chicago - Artist
https://linktr.ee/camglamming

The Secular Case for Reparations: Black Economic Justice from an Atheist’s View, arguing that reparations for descendants of enslaved Black Americans must be grounded not in religious appeals but in historical evidence, economic data, and moral accountability. Delivered originally at the Women of Color Beyond Belief conference, McDonald critiques faith-based approaches for their ineffectiveness and centers her argument around the systemic policies that created—and continue to uphold—the racial wealth gap. Drawing from historical context, including the Homestead Act, the GI Bill, and redlining, she shows how government action has long benefited white Americans at the expense of Black communities. Citing the work of economist William Darity Jr., she outlines a secular, policy-based framework for reparations built on Acknowledgment, Redress, and Closure. McDonald challenges the audience to recognize America's liability, move beyond performative gestures, and commit to structural change that closes the racial wealth gap—asserting that true justice requires both political engagement and collective will.

Biography:
Cynthia McDonald is a health and political advocate in the City of Chicago. She graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Organizational Leadership from Millikin University, minor in vocal music, and a Certification in Community Health from Malcolm X College. She authored a blog called Freedmen Health and Wellness which speaks on the social determinants of health of Black Americans that descend from Chattel Slavery. She has been a guest on several podcasts. She’s a host and producer on the Non-Prophets produced by the Atheist Community of Austin, 30 in 60 which is secular news podcast, and Women Atheist Unload produced by the Secular Haven channel. Cynthia is also the lead organizer for the Chi Town Affiliate for Black Nonbelievers Inc. She is a founding member of Godless Gospel affiliated with the Freedom from Religion Foundation. Cynthia has traveled the country speaking on Social and Economic Justice for African Americans, Black Secularism, and affiliated with the Secular Coalition of America where she recently went to lobby in Washington DC on behalf of Religion and Government separation and seeking reparations.

Link tree: https://linktr.ee/camglamming