We believe all people deserve to be represented by a Realtor® who’s on their team—a professional equipped with a breadth of knowledge and a commitment to ensuring a fair and equitable process for what is likely the biggest transaction of their lives. A critical part of that representation is a commitment to understanding difficult parts of the industry’s history and biases, and proactively seeking resources to better themselves and their business. MAR’s DEI Committee hosted a Roundtable event earlier this year that provided an excellent space for Realtors® to explore their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion lens, and leverage various resources for a more inclusive approach to their 2024 business planning. Consider this wealth of resources and how they can be harnessed for a more equitable real estate industry:
- Documentary Insights: “Newsday Investigation: Long Island Divided”
- Explore this documentary, shedding light on intentional and unintentional steering in real estate. Learn from real-life examples to understand the impact of such practices on marginalized communities.
- Local Projects and Coalition Resources:
- Dive into projects like the Mapping Prejudice Project at the University of Minnesota and Just Deeds to gain insights into local prejudices and discriminatory practices.
- Real Estate Agent Professional Trade Organizations:
- Connect with organizations committed to diversity, such as NAREB, Women’s Council of Realtors®, NAHREP, AREAA, VAREP, and the LGBTQ+ Alliance. These associations provide a platform to engage with diverse perspectives and collaborate for a more inclusive industry.
- Realtor® Associations:
- Explore the Minneapolis Area Realtors® (MAR) and our DEI Committee, Minnesota Realtors®, and the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). These associations offer valuable resources and training opportunities for Realtors® looking to embrace diversity and equity.
- NAR Fair Housing Certificates and Courses:
- Obtain certifications like the “At Home with Diversity” designation and participate in courses such as “Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing” and the Fairhaven Simulation. These resources empower Realtors® to foster fair and inclusive housing practices.
- Local Housing Organizations:
- Collaborate with organizations like Minnesota Housing, Habitat for Humanity, Project for Pride and Living, Property Resource Group, NeighborWorks Home Partners, and the Down Payment Resource Center. Engage in initiatives that promote affordable and accessible housing for all.
By leveraging the diverse array of resources provided, Realtors® can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable real estate industry. Let’s work together to build a future where folks of all backgrounds and identities have equal access to housing opportunities.