Honoring Progress: Juneteenth and the Path to Homeownership

By Corinne Mossman

June 25, 2025

As we step into June, we find ourselves at the intersection of two powerful observances: Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom and resilience, and National Homeownership Month, a time to reflect on the importance of equity and housing stability. Together, these themes invite us to consider how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go—in making homeownership accessible and inclusive for all.

Juneteenth, honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, specifically commemorating the day, June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It is also a moment to honor the strength of Black communities and acknowledge the systemic barriers that have persisted long after slavery ended. In real estate, those barriers have included redlining, discriminatory lending practices, and unequal access to generational wealth through property ownership. While progress has been made, the legacy of these injustices still echoes in today’s homeownership gap.

National Homeownership Month gives us a chance to celebrate the role that owning a home plays in building stronger families, neighborhoods, and futures. In the Pacific Northwest, where housing affordability and inventory remain pressing challenges in many locations, it’s more important than ever to ensure that the dream of homeownership is not just a privilege for some, but a possibility for all. That means advocating for fair housing practices, supporting first-time buyers, and investing in education and outreach that empower historically underserved communities.

I am grateful for the opportunity John L. Scott has provided for our team to learn more about the historical context that has led to the homeownership gap, and equally as grateful for the meaningful progress to address this gap. One of the most impactful actions is The Covenant Homeownership Account Program (CHAP) legislation known as HB 1474 which created the covenant homeownership program account to address the history of housing discrimination due to racially restrictive real estate covenants in Washington state. A $100 fee on all recorded home purchases funds this program that supplies down payments to eligible individuals. Our lending partner Priority Home Lending has been certified with the Covenant Home Ownership Program and the success stories of helping families into their first home are just incredible.

This month is an opportunity to lead with purpose. Whether it’s partnering with local organizations, hosting educational workshops, or simply having conversations that raise awareness, we each have a role to play in shaping a more equitable housing landscape. Real estate is more than transaction—it’s about helping people find a place to belong, build community, build wealth, and a healthy future.

As we enjoy the longer days and vibrant energy of early summer, let’s also take a moment to reflect on the deeper meaning of this season. Freedom, opportunity, and home are all deeply connected. By honoring Juneteenth and embracing the spirit of National Homeownership Month, we reaffirm our commitment to a future where everyone has the chance to thrive—starting with a place to call home.