Through Proposed Bill, Congresswoman Nikema Williams Aims To Restore, Strengthen Communities Of Color
Congresswoman Nikema Williams, who represents Georgia’s 5th Congressional District, joins “Closer Look” to discuss a new proposed bill that aims to restore neighborhoods damaged by highway construction projects in the 1950s.
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Congresswoman Nikema Williams says when the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956 was enacted, Black neighborhoods and Black business areas throughout the country were intentionally targeted — driving the generational, racial, wealth gap and segregation.
“We have to correct some of the inequities that were created by decisions of the federal government,” said Williams, who represents Georgia’s 5th Congressional District.
Williams was a guest on Friday’s edition of “Closer Look.”
She spoke candidly with show host Rose Scott about the importance of correcting the wrongs of the past through the Restoring Neighborhoods and Strengthening Communities Act.
If the proposed bill passes, it would establish community land trusts and either redesign or remove highways that were laid out in communities of color.
Williams says she’s sure that the bill will receive bipartisan support and that the bill is part of a federal program that Congress reviews every year.
“I am proud to be the lead sponsor of this legislation and seeing this through and making sure our communities are getting what they need,” Williams said.
To listen to the full conversation, click the audio player above.
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