Knowing our Past Makes Us Powerful

Habitat Wake strives to create a world in which everybody has access to affordable housing. We partner with the community to build homes that are purchased by local families at an affordable cost and advocate for local, state, and federal policies that promote access to affordable homes on a broader level. However, we can’t solve the affordability issue without addressing the long history of racial discrimination in housing. 

Race + Housing 101

Housing is at the core of our lives. A safe, affordable place to call home provides  a connection to the surrounding community and opportunities for economic mobility. Homeownership in particular is one the primary ways to build wealth in the United States. However, centuries of institutionalized racial discrimination in housing have created intentionally segregated cities and towns with impacts that endure to this day. 

One of the most significant consequences of discriminatory housing policies is the stark difference in net wealth held by Black and white families. Black families specifically were denied access to mortgages, desirable neighborhoods and homeownership subsidies, through redlining and restrictive covenants. This means that white families were able to access homeownership and pass along wealth to their children.

The long-term impacts are clear today:

As we advocate for equitable access to affordable housing in Wake and Johnston counties, we aim to offer educational resources and encourage  elected officials to promote policies that support equitable housing practices. We invite you to join us by reading through the resources below to learn more!