Over the past month, we have seen demonstrations against police violence seize the national conscience, and we have been listening. We hear, and we know that these uprisings are not solely in response to acts of brutality against Black individuals. We know they are equally in response to a collective experience, in part characterized by continued acts of harm perpetuated upon Black communities through disparate access to housing, economic opportunity, community investment, education, and all of the systems through which we operate. These acts of harm have been normalized within our nation, and one thing is clear – this injustice is no longer silent and was never acceptable.

As planners – especially as housing and community development planners – we know the full weight of our profession’s involvement in racial segregation and persistent disparities that have directly led us to this point.

Housing and Community Development have historically played an integral and critical role in disparate development leading to differential outcomes across communities based on race. As these planning disciplines have contributed to negative outcomes in the past, so too can they be a part of systemic change and social justice as we look toward – and look to create – a more equitable future. While APA HCD members are aware of the histories that have brought us to this current moment, new conversations regarding racial equity, communities that are socially just and housing that is truly fair must become centered in our profession and we must become leaders in enabling continued discussion and providing resources for our membership.

APA HCD is seeking a Research Fellow who can monitor and aggregate research, analysis, and other forms of content (articles, podcasts, etc.) that will better inform and engage Division membership on ways we can utilize our skills to take actions toward a more racially just future.