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n the pursuit of racial equity in real estate development, a seismic shift is underway. The 10 Principles for Embedding Racial Equity Development report, published by Urban Land Institute, serves as a catalyst for transformation. These principles are not mere guidelines but seeds of profound change, capable of growing into stronger, more equitable systems that uplift everyone.

    However, like any seeds, they require intentional care to flourish. Without deliberate attention to the climate, soil enrichment, and consistent nourishment, these seeds risk remaining dormant or being uprooted prematurely. Unfortunately, the current political and cultural landscape has led some companies to abandon their racial equity commitments, often due to external pressure or a lack of willingness to engage in sustained work.

    To cultivate real change, leaders must first answer fundamental questions: Why are we planting these seeds? What do we want to grow? And where do we want to go? The 10 Principles report showcases real-world examples of organizations applying racial equity principles and practices to drive equitable outcomes. Through their stories, we see the potential for these seeds to reshape the foundations of how we build, operate, and engage with the world.

    The question remains: Are we prepared to do the work needed to make these seeds thrive? As we tend to this garden of equitable development, the 10 Principles report challenges us to remain vigilant stewards of the change we want to see. It invites us to create an environment where these seeds can take root, grow strong, and ultimately flourish into tangible, equitable practices that uplift everyone.

    The notion that a rising tide lifts all boats is a familiar adage, but it's a myth for many communities of color. The reality is that systemic inequities have created holes in the economic boats of marginalized groups, leaving them behind as the economy grows. The 10 Principles report provides tools to fix these boats, repair their structural flaws, and build strong, inclusive vessels that ensure everyone has the opportunity to rise with the tide.

    My own family history reflects this stark contrast between two economic realities. My white grandfather returned from World War II and benefited from the GI Bill, building wealth that he passed down to his children. In contrast, my Black grandfather served in the same war but was unable to purchase a home or access similar opportunities, leaving him with no generational wealth.

    These stories illustrate the compounding effects of systemic inequities, where the benefits of rising economic tides have been unevenly distributed. Transforming principle into practice requires us to center people in our strategies and decisions, acknowledging that real estate has the power to transform lives. This work demands we challenge the status quo and embrace the opportunity to drive more equitable and racially just outcomes.

    A new operating system for equitable real estate development would redefine risk and return, measuring success not just by financial metrics but also by social impact. It would require us to shift our focus from how to why, what, and who – starting with the fundamental questions that guide transformation.

    The 10 Principles report is a framework designed to spark reflection, action, and sustained progress. Each principle invites leaders to define their unique journey toward embedding racial equity into their business models. The challenge before us is not just to imagine a better system but to begin building it – with intentionality and collaboration.

    Cultivating these seeds of racial equity demands more than intention; it requires commitment, care, and an understanding of equity as both a concept and a lived reality. Equity is a process that evolves from diversity to belonging to inclusion, culminating in equity. As we reflect on these principles, let us create a world where the lives of our children and grandchildren are no longer shaped by inequitable systems.

    The 10 Principles are the seeds for this transformation, but they can only sprout and thrive if we consistently prepare the environment, nurture their growth, and remain vigilant stewards of the change we want to see. Together, we can co-create a world where equity is not just a principle we strive for, but a lived reality for all.