June 19th, 2024 marks the 159th anniversary of our nation’s second Independence Day, otherwise known as Juneteenth. On this day in 1865, the United States took its first step towards equality by signing into law the liberation of nearly four million African American slaves. This often-overlooked event was just the spark that fueled the endless fight for civil justice among Black Americans.
From the Civil Rights movement almost 100 years later, to racial justice issues persisting today, Black Americans have been relentless in their pursuit of social and economic equity—specifically by working to close the wealth gap and achieve financial success.
The battle for racial wealth equality is doubly reinforced in June as we also celebrate National Homeownership Month. For many of Americans, owning a home signifies the pinnacle of success, stability, and safety; however, Black families today remain burdened by the barriers of the past.
In Maryland, there exists a 26% lower homeownership rate for Black families – exceeding 30% in Baltimore. Without a trusted resource to affordable mortgages, fair lending, and equitable appraisals, these entrenched, systemic barriers will continue to hold Black families back.
For 30 years, HomeFree-USA has played a major role in championing diversity among homeowners–and now you can join in the movement to do the same. Our goal is to guide families through today’s financial struggles to attain homeownership because we know that sustainable homeownership is the foundation to generational wealth.
By supporting HomeFree-USA and its initiatives, you will be part of the march towards equity and justice for Americans of color.
We must act now. We must continue widening the pathways of opportunity for our friends, family, and neighbors alike. We have a responsibility to build a brighter future.
