When HOME's volunteers and supporters are asked why they support HOME and fight for equal housing access, most tell you simply -
"Because it's right."
In fact, HOME finds that most everyone believes in equal access and fighting discrimination. When it comes to American values, there is nothing more fundamental to the nation than human equality.
"We hold these truths to be self evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
HOME takes a balanced approach to working for housing
equality, working directly with individuals and with housing providers,
legislators, and the housing industry.
HOME works for equal housing opportunities for all people regardless
of race, national origin, or other factors. This is work that needs
your awareness and support in Virginia:
Did you know that government funded independent
audits show that today more than 53% of Virginia's minority citizens
face discrimination when looking for a place to rent?
Homeownership rates for minorities are dramatically lower than for whites
with equivalent economic situations. The average black family earning
more than $60,000 a year lives in a neighborhood with a higher poverty
rate and lower educational attainment than the average white family
earning less than $30,000.
What causes these disparities in equal access? Why is
it, that even when the fundamental economics in a personal situation
are the same, when only race is different, that housing disparities
can be so significant?
The explosion of credit, exponential increases in abusive lending practices,
and the spiraling cost of housing all challenge the ability of vast
numbers of Virginians to find and keep decent housing for their families.
The housing systems in our Commonwealth are not yet equal.
Moreover, this inequality affects each of us directly, no matter where
we live. A lack of decent housing increases crime rates, erodes tax
bases, creates significant educational system burdens, and on a much
more directly human level strains many families past the breaking point.
It will take our united efforts to correct those factors
that create an unequal housing market.
HOME fights for equal housing access in Virginia. We hope you will too.
Eyes Wide Open - 8 Minute
Streaming Video
HOME's Goals - 7 Stepping Stones
to Equality
How to Make a Personal
Difference
HOME's Equal Housing Victories
