Learning the history of racial discrimination in our country is only one step in an important process towards advocating for inclusive affordable housing policies. The next step is to discuss this background and its consequences with others in your community. Throughout the year, we organize faith groups and other community members in Race and Housing dialogues held throughout Wake County.
The dialogues are a great way to learn more about past policies and practices of housing discrimination and how that legacy continues to influence the lack of access to stable affordable housing today. This includes hearing from guest speakers and participating in facilitated discussions on our personal reflections on this history and how to advocate for policies to lessen racial inequities in housing.
Segregated by Design
We encourage you to watch Segregated by Design, a short film that examines the long history of policies and laws which intentionally segregated cities across the United States. Below, find some discussion questions you can use to explore with your peers.
After watching the video, use the following questions to guide your discussion!
1. What did you learn from this video that surprised you?
2. What, if anything, were you taught in school about racial discrimination in
housing?
3. How have people in your community shown awareness of these issues?
4. How would your neighborhood look today if these discriminatory policies
were never enforced?
5. What can we do, as a community, to spread awareness and promote equity in housing?