PROPERTY IS POWER! How racist laws stole Black wealth through homeownership

The legacy of systemic racism, through Jim Crow laws and redlining, has had devastating effects on Black homeownership, equity values, wealth generation, and legacy building. These practices systematically denied Black people the opportunity to own property, which is the bedrock of wealth in America. The result has been the exclusion of generations from the critical wealth building benefits of homeownership, leading to a persistent wealth gap that continues to harm our community today. Several laws and practices, like Jim Crow, had a profound and lasting impact on Black homeownership in the United States. These laws and policies, both formal and informal, were designed to limit access to wealth building opportunities. Here are some of the most significant ones: Jim Crow Laws (Late 19th Century to 1960s) Jim Crow laws, primarily in Southern states, enforced racial segregation and institutionalized racial discrimination across multiple areas of life, including housing. Segregated Neighborhoods: Black people were often restricted to certain neighborhoods, usually the least desirable areas with limited access to amenities, schools, and services. These neighborhoods had lower property values and fewer opportunities for homeownership. Limited Legal Recourse: Under Jim Crow laws, Black people had little to no legal recourse when they faced discrimination...