New study seeks to address peristant Racial housing inequities in Palm Beach County
- At November 30, 2023
- By fhfla
- In News
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A first-of-its-kind study on racial inequities in homeownership in Palm Beach County has concluded that discriminatory housing practices still exist and warned the situation could hurt the economic growth of the area as a whole.
Dozens of housing experts and county officials who took part in a panel on the release of the report this week were aligned on the scale of the problem — and the difficulty of finding a solution. It was done by the Florida International University Jorge M. Pérez Metropolitan Center.
Among the report’s stark conclusions were that a history of segregation — to this day — harms the ability of people of color to own homes and build generational wealth, with practices such as exclusionary zoning and racially discriminatory mortgage practices still prevalent. That inequity was exacerbated during the COVID-19,
When it comes to homeownership, there are wide disparities rooted in a history of discrimination and segregation, according to the FIU researchers. Only 52% of Black residents in the region own their home, compared to 59% of Hispanics and 77% of whites.
“Housing discrimination and residential segregation have long hindered the ability of Black individuals and families to become homebuyers and build equity,” researchers wrote.
The study recommends bolstering a proposed new Affimiatively Furthering Fair Housing rule by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to help Black homeowners and buyers, and address racial disparities in housing in Palm Beach County.
Vince Larkins, FHC President/CEO praised the study. ” This study goes a long way in highlighting the persistance of housing segregation in Palm Beach County that cannot continue to be ignorded. The FHC commends all those involved in the important study and look forward to working proactively with all of our community partners and stakeholders to make Equal Housing Opportunities a reality for all residents.”
To view the full study CLICK HERE.
