Black Leadership in the Fight Against Homelessness: Past, Present, and Future
- Hope N. Griffin
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
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.
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:
Support Black-led organizations working to end homelessness
Learn about housing discrimination in your area
Advocate for fair housing policies
Volunteer with The Bautista Project
Share resources and information within your community
Attend local housing policy meetings
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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