
What comes to mind when you think about the DMV?
Reactions can vary greatly; for some, it’s a source of dread linked to long waits, while for new drivers, it might spark excitement and anticipation.
The Impact of Language: Choosing Our Words Carefully
In the course of my teaching on fair housing, I often mention the DMV alongside other terms that evoke strong emotions, showcasing the profound effect that language can have.
But why does this matter?
The words we choose can either foster a sense of belonging or push away the very individuals we aim to support.
The acronym DEI—signifying diversity, equity, and inclusion—has sparked both affirmative interpretations, such as “DEFINITELY earned it,” and negative reactions, like “DIDN’T earn it.” Yet, neither viewpoint resonates fully with the true meaning of DEI in the realms of real estate and fair housing: ensuring that everyone has equal access and opportunities.
At its core, fair housing isn’t merely about validating property values; it’s a fundamental right rooted in our Constitution.
Enshrined in the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and bolstered by various federal laws, executive orders, as well as local and state regulations, this right protects over 19 classes in the U.S., including:
- Race
- Color
- Sex
- Familial status
- National origin
- Disability
- Religion
- Age
- Ancestry
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity
- Marital status
- Military status
- Survivors of domestic violence
- Source of income
- Genetic information
- Pregnancy
- HIV/AIDS status
- Criminal history
- Plus more
With this historical context in mind, discussions centered on merit become largely irrelevant in real estate.
Moreover, organizations that have faced criticism for scaling back their DEI efforts don’t share the same historical baggage as REALTOR associations.
Reflecting on History: REALTORS’ Struggles with Access and Opportunity
Throughout history, there have been several poignant instances where REALTORS actively resisted broader access and opportunity, such as:
- Professional Exclusion (1920s – 1960s): Efforts to restrict the term “Realtor” effectively sidelined Black American professionals.
- Barriers Faced by Fair Housing Advocates: Broker Margaret Collins experienced repeated denials from the Main Line Board of REALTORS, which she believed stemmed from her clientele’s racial backgrounds.
Ultimately, she successfully sued the Board for unlawful trade practices.
- Systemic Segregation: Many minority real estate professionals were routinely barred from operating in neighborhoods designated for “whites only,” a dynamic evident in incidents like the Atlanta “Berlin Wall.”
- Opposition to Fair Housing Policies: Numerous REALTOR associations fiercely opposed significant fair housing laws, deeming them as “forced housing.”
Despite these barriers, a dedicated group of REALTORS has consistently championed fair housing, known as Fair Housing DECODERS.
Championing Access and Opportunity for All
Having a grasp of our past is crucial—it’s like using a mall directory that marks “you are here.” The real estate industry must learn from its historical shortcomings to prevent a repeat of those mistakes.
This awareness highlights the essential role of DEI committees within REALTOR associations and real estate firms, reinforcing the commitment to welcome all individuals, particularly those from historically marginalized communities, as colleagues and clients.
However, the current national dialogue around DEI can often become polarized, diverting attention from the fundamental goal of achieving fair housing for everyone.
This is why I emphasize the need to pivot the conversation toward “access and opportunity.”
The result of this reframing? Even in states like Florida, where DEI principles face resistance, the tenets of “access and opportunity” remain integral to the real estate landscape.
Perhaps it’s time to think about rebranding our efforts instead of abandoning them altogether, ensuring that everyone’s right to “access and opportunity” in real estate is upheld.
Lee Davenport is a real estate educator, coach, and author.
The views expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect those of HousingWire’s editorial team or its owners.
Source: Housingwire