Honoring Black History Month

February is Black History Month, and real estate is one industry that has been positively impacted by the contributions of African Americans.

Carter Woodsen, an American historian, created Black History Week, originally celebrated on Feb. 12, 1926, aiming for it to consistently be the second week of February each year. It eventually extended into a month-long awareness and was officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976.

The National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc. was created after the establishment of Black History Week, but before Ford’s recognition. Founded in 1947 in Tampa, the NAREB is “an equal opportunity and civil rights advocacy organization for African American real estate professionals, consumers and communities in America,” according to their website. The Realist© organization embraces all qualified real estate practitioners who are committed to achieving NAREB’s vision of democracy in housing.

“The Philadelphia Metropolitan Board of Realtist© has always fought for democracy in housing. It is my firm belief that if we work together, we can achieve better opportunities in housing. The time is now to work at being efficient, effective and having fun along the way to making an impact in our minority businesses, communities and among ourselves. Referencing Dr. Julianne Malveaux’s 1704 book Surviving and Thriving: 365 Facts in Black Economic History, I would encourage everyone to take a look at the Sullivan Principles in their business conduct,” said Philadelphia Metropolitan Board of Realtist© President Darlene Meekins.

Meekins also suggested viewing the 2008 movie A Powerful Noise in honor of Black History Month and next month’s Women’s History Month.

Tracee Carter, president of the Central PA Association of Realtist©, stressed the importance of African Americans in real estate, both as Realtors® and homeowners. “I believe that homeownership is the No. 1 asset to wealth building,” said Carter. “With black representation in the industry, I think there are more people learning about the benefits of homeownership. There’s a lack of education and resources among African Americans, we hadn’t saved like other families and cultures. NAREB believes in democracy in housing, education and in fair housing for all. I have helped people across all demographics buy houses. Homeownership is the cornerstone of wealth. If you own a home, you are showing you are invested in the community.”