Housing disparities have deeply rooted ties to racism and discriminatory practices, such as redlining. But modern-day obstacles are still limiting people of color from becoming homeowners.

In Pittsburgh, the racial homeownership gap is worsening. Community advocates point to a mix of pandemic impacts and inaction by leaders as the cause.

Home prices are on the rise. Options are slim. For Pittsburgh homebuyers, especially those of color, the journey can be arduous. Housing and racial justice advocates are pushing for legislation to increase equity in home loans. 

Reporter Katelyn Vue explores why the disparities persist and the efforts for equity.

“It doesn’t seem like we’ve changed the needle on the meter,” said Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group Executive Director Ernie Hogan. “We think it’s a much more complicated issue of just banks not lending to Blacks.”

Click here or tap below to read the story. 

—TyLisa C. Johnson, audience engagement editor