On June 19, 2022, we will celebrate the 157th anniversary of the effective end of slavery in the United States. This day, known as Juneteenth, is a day to celebrate liberation, but also a day to reflect on the nation’s past. The progress we have made as a country in 157 years is undeniable, as is the work we still need to do to end injustice and racial discrimination.
Today, although people are free, the legacy of slavery continues in many areas. An area that is still monumentally affected is housing. Nationally, only 44% of Black Americans own their homes, compared with nearly 75% of White Americans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Even in the city of Atlanta, with African Americans being the largest ethnic group, the racial gap is still just as large.
Historically, many African Americans were legally denied land and homeownership. Even with the passing of the Fair Housing Act in 1968, which made housing discrimination illegal, discrimination continued. As a result, communities of color are still being impacted by systematic disparities including less access to capital, mortgages, and the ability to live in neighborhoods of their choice.
Here at Atlanta Habitat, we are happy to know and embrace that we are a force and a leader in closing the racial housing divide. The conversation is finally shifting and establishing a priority to do what Atlanta Habitat sets out to do every day – create a world where everyone has a safe, decent place to live.
Knowing history and how past decisions affect the present can be a building block for impactful growth and monumental change in the future. As a leader in affordable housing in Atlanta, who has guided nearly 1,400 African Americans to homeownership, we are committed to doing our part. And we are not alone. We appreciate the many partners from all walks of life that stand with us and build not only homes but scholarship opportunities, financial literacy and entrepreneurship through Atlanta Habitat. Every supporter of Atlanta Habitat allows us to shape our own narrative and bring about real and meaningful change.
This year, may we all be intentional in using this as a critical moment of observation and reflection about the impact of our nation’s past, how it impacts the present lived experience of African Americans, and what we have to do to create a better future. As we prepare to double our impact in affordable housing and educational programs, we will continue to be a lead contributor to closing the racial homeownership gap. While we continue to celebrate homeowner after homeowner in the dedication of their home each week, we are optimistic that the freedom and liberation will be evident in homeownership across Atlanta.
Happy Juneteenth.
