Why do we need more housing? Housing comes in many forms. The concept of housing itself is a social construct and what qualifies as ‘decent’ and ‘affordable’ housing has changed drastically over time and between jurisdictions. Generally speaking, a house is a living space used for permanent or semi-permanent residence for an individual, family, household … Continue reading Build, Build, Build…
More Regulation Needed for SFR Institutional Investors
Real estate has always been a safe, long-term investment. When managed locally (and not by a slumlord who is mining equity), rental owners provide an important service to a local community by providing affordable and decent places to live. Historically, middle-to-upper-middle-class families owned a couple of units to build long-term wealth and provide a cushion … Continue reading More Regulation Needed for SFR Institutional Investors
Addressing Racial & Economic Justice
Under a Republican Supermajority in North Carolina In recent years, the political landscape in several states has shifted. This week, North Carolina rejoins the list of states where Republicans have gained supermajorities in state legislatures. This development occurred when Rep. Tricia Cotham of Mecklenburg County, a former teacher and school administrator, switched from the Democratic … Continue reading Addressing Racial & Economic Justice
Environmental Justice Movements in North Carolina
Communities in Action Many Americans believe that poverty and geography are the main factors that determine where hazardous industries such as landfills, industrial farms, and pipelines are located, but there is mounting evidence that race, and not poverty, is the greatest predictor of where these industries will be sited. In North Carolina, landfills are disproportionately … Continue reading Environmental Justice Movements in North Carolina
Bridging the Divide
Exploring Racial Reparations and Their Potential for Healing Historical Injustices Racial reparations, or compensatory measures aimed at addressing historical injustices faced by Black Americans, have been a subject of considerable debate in recent years. Advocates argue that reparations are essential to rectify the lasting effects of slavery, segregation, and systemic discrimination, while critics contend that … Continue reading Bridging the Divide
Strategies to Strengthen Equity & Promote Community Growth
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace Equity in the workforce is critical for fostering economic development and community growth. It ensures that all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status, have equal access to job opportunities, fair wages, and career advancement (Ridgeway, 2014). However, persistent disparities among different demographic groups continue to … Continue reading Strategies to Strengthen Equity & Promote Community Growth
A Theory of Change
Eliminating racial disparities and dismantling structural racism Many organization have a mission to reduce racial disparities and address structural racism, ultimately creating a more equitable and inclusive environment for all. While a noble goal, to achieve it several preconditions must be met, including increased awareness and understanding of structural racism and racial disparities, changes in … Continue reading A Theory of Change
Innovative Research Insights 