What exactly is our perplexing dilemma? How can we unravel it and grasp its essence? To embark on our journey, my fellow CODES scholars and I have joined forces with the Missouri Botanical Gardens to explore the intricate topic of reparative justice. Conveying or addressing reparative justice is no simple feat; it falls into the realm of the six wicked problems: vague problem definition, Undefined solution, No endpoint, Irreversibility, Uniqueness, and Immediacy. We must find whether our problem possesses these traits and if we’re truly faced with a problem requiring resolution. Though the path forward isn’t easy, to truly grasp our task we need to dive into history and illuminate the past.
Henry Shaw was a vital figure in St. Louis, Missouri’s history. He was a successful businessman, botanist, and philanthropist. He retired at the age of 39 and focused on real estate, eventually owning almost 1000 acres in the St. Louis region, including the land now known as Tower Grove Park. While he undoubtedly left an indelible mark through his philanthropy and the establishment of the Missouri Botanical Garden, it is crucial to recognize the darker aspect of his life as a slave owner. He owned enslaved individuals, including Juliette, whom he freed in 1839. He also hired a bounty hunter to capture four enslaved individuals attempting to escape via the Underground Railroad in 1855. This duality serves as a reminder that even those who have made significant contributions to society can possess flaws and engage in morally questionable practices. By confronting the complexities of history, we can gain a deeper understanding of the individuals who shaped our world.
In the book “Sustainable World: Approaches to Analyzing and Resolving Wicked Problems,” several examples are provided to illustrate the nature of wicked problems and how they can be analyzed and resolved. The book offers insights into various complex issues, including climate change, poverty, healthcare, and environmental degradation. One example from the book that relates to the concept of reparative justice is the case of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in South Africa. The TRC was established in the aftermath of apartheid to address the human rights violations committed during that period. It aimed to provide a platform for victims to share their experiences and for perpetrators to confess their crimes in exchange for amnesty. The TRC’s objective was to promote healing, reconciliation, and social cohesion by bringing the truth to light and acknowledging the suffering of those affected. Another example discussed in the book is the issue of food insecurity and sustainable agriculture. This wicked problem involves complex factors such as population growth, climate change, poverty, and unequal access to resources. The book explores innovative approaches such as agroecology, urban farming, and community-based initiatives that aim to address these challenges and create a more sustainable and equitable food system.
According to “Sustainable World: Approaches to Analyzing and Resolving Wicked Problems,” our problem of addressing reparative justice fits within the six characteristics of wicked problems. Our problem of reparative justice can be considered vague in terms of its definition and scope. It is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful examination and understanding. Additionally, the solution to reparative justice is undefined, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach or clear path to resolution. The problem of reparative justice also lacks a clear endpoint. Achieving justice and repairing historical injustices is an ongoing process that may not have a definitive conclusion. Furthermore, the issue of reparative justice is irreversible, as the past cannot be changed. The uniqueness of our problem lies in its historical context and the specific individuals and communities affected. Each case of reparative justice is distinct, requiring tailored approaches and solutions.
Finally, the problem of reparative justice demands immediacy, as there is an urgent need to address and rectify past injustices. Knowing that what Henry Shaw has done cannot be undone, it becomes imperative for us to move forward and spread this information to create awareness. Our unique problem requires us to not only think about the solutions we implement, but also how we are going to implement them, considering the underlying effects and how we will deal with them. To define the problem more precisely, our research team should consider the specific historical context, the impacted communities, and the desired outcomes of reparative justice. Additionally, we should analyze existing frameworks and approaches to reparative justice to gain insights and develop a comprehensive understanding of the issue. By acknowledging the complexities of history and engaging in critical analysis, we can work towards a brighter future.