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Black Leadership in the Fight Against Homelessness: Past, Present, and Future

Writer: Hope N. GriffinHope N. Griffin

In Tampa Bay and across America, the face of homelessness reveals a stark reality: while Black Americans make up only 13% of the U.S. population, they account for 40% of those experiencing homelessness (HUD). This isn't by chance – it's the result of decades of discriminatory policies and systemic barriers that continue to impact our communities today.


The Numbers Tell a Story

These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent real people, families, and generations affected by policies like redlining and housing segregation. In our own community, we see how these historical injustices continue to limit access to stable housing and economic mobility.



Leaders Making Change

Today's Black leaders are transforming how we address homelessness. Their work reminds us that Black History Month isn't just about the past – it's about the change-makers working right now to create a more equitable future.


Housing Justice and Advocacy

  • Amanda Andere, CEO of Funders Together to End Homelessness, pushes for systemic transformation in how we approach homelessness funding and policy

  • Lisa Rice of the National Fair Housing Alliance champions policies for racial equity in housing

  • Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley works tirelessly to protect renters from eviction

  • Alanna McCargo highlights the power of Black homeownership in breaking cycles of poverty

  • Jimiyu Evans, Co-CEO of Project Community Connections, Inc., demonstrates the effectiveness of rapid rehousing programs

  • Twyla Carter, Attorney-in-Chief of The Legal Aid Society, fights against policies that criminalize poverty


Mental Health and Community Support

  • Dr. Altha Stewart, the first African American president of the American Psychiatric Association, champions mental health access in underserved communities

  • Jewel Thais-Williams, founder of the Village Health Foundation, creates safe spaces and support programs for LGBTQ+ individuals facing homelessness

  • Dr. Carl C. Bell, founded the Community Mental Health Council in Chicago, pioneering research on trauma, substance abuse, and homelessness in Black communities

  • Bebe Moore Campbell co-founded NAMI Urban Los Angeles, addressing mental health challenges in the Black community

  • Dr. Joyce Ladner provides invaluable research on systemic causes of homelessness

  • Michael S. Hinson Jr., CEO of SELF, Inc., expands services for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing homelessness

  • Yolo Akili Robinson, founder of BEAM, works to remove barriers to mental health care in Black communities


The Mental Health Connection

The intersection of mental health and homelessness cannot be overlooked. Black leaders in mental health advocacy understand that stable housing and mental wellness are deeply interconnected. Their work shows us that comprehensive support must address both the physical need for shelter and the mental health challenges that often accompany housing instability.


Local Impact, Global Change

Here at The Bautista Project, we're proud to be part of this legacy of Black leadership in addressing homelessness. Our founder, Marla Bautista, transforms her lived experience with homelessness into advocacy, ensuring that people affected by housing instability are seen, heard, and supported with dignity.



Watch Marla Bautista's Ted Talk and here how her journey of homelessness brought her to advocacy.


Breaking Cycles Through Innovation

These leaders show us that addressing homelessness requires a multi-faceted approach:

  • Mental health support and advocacy

  • Legal protection and policy change

  • Economic empowerment and financial education

  • Rapid rehousing initiatives

  • Community-based support systems

  • Cultural competency in service delivery


Join the Conversation

We want to hear from you:

  • How has housing discrimination affected your community?

  • What Black leaders inspire your work for social justice?

  • How can we better support Black-led organizations working to end homelessness?

  • What solutions have you seen work in your community?


Take Action

Ready to be part of the solution? Here's how you can help:

  1. Support Black-led organizations working to end homelessness

  2. Learn about housing discrimination in your area

  3. Advocate for fair housing policies

  4. Volunteer with The Bautista Project

  5. Share resources and information within your community

  6. Attend local housing policy meetings

  7. Challenge discriminatory practices when you see them


Visit www.thebautistaprojectinc.org/donate to support our work in creating lasting change.

Remember, Black history isn't just about the past – it's about the future we're creating together. The leaders highlighted here demonstrate the power of combining lived experience, professional expertise, and unwavering commitment to justice. Their work shows us that ending homelessness isn't just about providing shelter – it's about creating systemic change that addresses the root causes of housing inequality.


Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's continue this important conversation.

 
 
 

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