New Jersey would become the first northern state and the fifth state overall to apologize for slavery under a measure to be considered this week by state lawmakers.
"This is not too much to ask of the state of New Jersey," said Assemblyman William Payne, who sponsors the bill. "All that is being requested of New Jersey is to say three simple words: We are sorry."

Legislators in Alabama, Maryland, North Carolina and Virginia have issued formal slavery apologies.