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The Surprising Connection Between Your Students’ Grades and the Federal Housing Authority

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In 1934, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) played a significant role in reinforcing segregation practices. They implemented a policy called “redlining,” where they declined to provide mortgage insurance for properties located in or around African-American neighborhoods. This practice perpetuated already segregated housing. The FHA simultaneously supported  builders constructing large housing developments exclusively for white residents by providing subsidies for those developments. The condition attached to these subsidies was–none of these homes could be sold to African-Americans.  Making matters worse and further deepening the racial divide in housing opportunities was the fact that the government placed another condition on subsidies—newly constructed homes could not be located near African American neighborhoods either. Despite being challenged in federal and state courts, home buying policies remained in place and made purchasing a home nearly impossible for many black people.

Redlining was made illegal by the Fair Housing Act of 1968.  However, this did not immediately eliminate racism and discrimination in housing, nor did it stop banks and other institutions in positions of power from continuing the practice. These practices affected educational opportunities for many black and minority students.

Without the ability to purchase a home, many black families were unable to build generational wealth through homeownership. Home equity and homeownership provide the financial stability needed to afford college, which in turn affects opportunities for higher income potential for those children. Without a college education, the cycle of limited opportunities has continued for many generations.

Moreover, redlining resulted in a lack of diversity in some schools that still exists today, which further widens the educational opportunity gap. Studies show that students in racially and economically diverse schools have better academic outcomes and more opportunities for success. Thus, creating educational environments that encourage diversity is critical to breaking down the barriers created by redlining.

Ultimately, redlining had a profound effect on educational opportunities for black students. Although housing discrimination was made illegal, policies and practices were still created that prevented black families from purchasing homes, building wealth, and therefore, providing the necessary resources for their children to succeed. As school counselors, being aware of the  barriers that exist is crucial to providing all students an equal opportunity for success. Moreover, your awareness of how long lasting those barriers have been, and how they continue to affect your students’ education is critical to your role as advocate and educator.  It is important to identify gaps in opportunity, advocate for policies that promote equity, and to work towards breaking down the racial and economic barriers that continue to prevent all students from reaching their full potential.

To learn how you can leverage your advocacy to dismantle oppressive policies and practices for your students and create equitable educational spaces, join us at the 2023 Summer School Counseling Conference to gain valuable insight. Secure your spot by registering through this link. This virtual event offers more than 35 professional development opportunities, tailored to enhance your skills as a school counselor.

 

With Love For All,

The Fancy Counselor

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