WATCH: Housing in the Post-Affirmative Action Environment: Insights from Spelman College Professor Dr. Jackson
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| Image by Mark Thomas from Pixabay. |
Did you know women make up 62% of REALTOR® but are woefully underrepresented in firm leadership and management?
Also, did you know according to the 2020 U.S. Census, People of color — in other words, the collective of Black, Indigenous, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino/Latine— make up a whopping 38% of the US population but are only a measly 13% of REALTORS®?
You may be wondering, “Okay what’s the problem with that?”
Well, historically, under-representation among real estate professionals (like agents, brokers, lenders, and appraisers) has meant un-fair housing happens and it often happens unchecked.
Today, is no different. Case in point: Remember the expose by Newsday entitled, “Long Island Divided” that showed steering still happens. Exactly!
To add insult to injury, since 2020, a laundry list of companies have been hit with fines for “redlining” in this century (to be clear, we are talking about over 50 years after federal fair housing became law). These companies include:
- Redfin,
- Facebook,
- KeyBank,
- Trustmark National Bank,
- City National Bank,
- Park National Bank,
- Lakeland Bank,
- Trident Mortgage,
- Cadence Bank,
- and there are others! ( ESSA Bank & Trust)
Collectively, they have paid multiple millions. Yet, we know fines alone are not the solution.
Such data easily points to the need for a concerted effort from all of us to proactively recruit, hire and develop everyone, especially our underrepresented communities.
But will the partial elimination of affirmative action in elite college admissions eventually impact the representation, access and opportunity of the real estate industry for People of Color?
For other protected groups?
Is it a non-factor of homeownership or the tipping point, stoking the flames higher of un-fair housing?
Why quality professional development – including inspiring fair housing continuing education – is needed now more than ever.
When did affirmation action in the U.S. begin to include women and People of Color?
What can we do to continue to prioritize representation in our associations and firms, among both membership and leadership?
To answer these questions and more, I am joined by a leader in higher education, my own professor (I am a graduate of the Diverse Leadership program) from THEE #1 HBCU, Spelman College, Dr. Francesina R. Jackson.
Have you ever needed the “Cliff Notes” version of fair housing? Well, move over Spark Notes!
The Starting Point: How to Be a Fair Housing DECODER Guide https://books.bookfunnel.com/learnwithdrlee
It is available to download for a limited time at no fee. Score!
This condensed workbook (based on the nationally acclaimed workshop) offers Dr. Lee's novel concept of being a Fair Housing DECODER© who skillfully and proactively advocates --not alienates-- for equitable access and opportunity in real estate for EVERYONE.
“Interesting approach on the topic of fair housing that I have not seen offered to Realtors.” --Maria, Broker/Owner, REALTOR®
“I have the Realtor GRI designation and they should make this part of that designation. This is THAT good. THANKS, Dr. Lee!” --Michael, Broker/Owner, REALTOR®
Hurry, download (and share with others) today while complimentary supplies last!
