“We Who Believe in Freedom”: The Duty of Forensic Psychology to Reparations Movements: The Duty of Forensic Psychology to Reparations Movements

Forensic psychology has a critical role in advancing reparations as a means of addressing the historical and ongoing harms of systemic racism, carceral violence, and structural discrimination against African Americans. Reparations serve as both a form of resistance to oppression and a necessary step toward justice, healing, and societal transformation. While the U.S. has provided restitution to other marginalized groups, reparations for African Americans remain an unresolved moral and legal imperative. Rooted in the concept of restitution in integrum and international human rights frameworks, reparations must be comprehensive, encompassing restitution, compensation, rehabilitation, satisfaction, and guarantees of non-repetition. This chapter explores how forensic psychologists can contribute to reparatory justice through research, policy advocacy, clinical interventions, and expert testimony. By documenting the psychological harms of systemic racism, advocating for legal and policy reforms, and developing culturally responsive interventions for formerly incarcerated individuals, forensic psychologists can help shape state responses that promote reparative justice. Collaborations with community organizations and interdisciplinary efforts are essential to ensuring that reparations efforts address both historical grievances and contemporary inequities. Ultimately, integrating forensic psychology into the reparations movement can foster meaningful systemic change and contribute to a more just and equitable society.