For 27 years, Housing Up has pursued the mission of providing housing and supportive services to homeless and low-income families in the District of Columbia so that they can transform their lives. The success of our mission depends on the shared political, social and personal commitment that, regardless of race, background or belief, all deserve housing they can afford and safe and supportive communities in which to live.

The events in Charlottesville on August 11-12th and their aftermath threaten to undermine that commitment. Some may even ask if, in President Obama’s paraphrase of Dr. King’s words, “the arc of history bends toward justice” any longer. Housing Up believes it does and that it must. But it is not enough to affirm these optimistic words and stand aside. Together with all the organizations and individuals who have spoken out, we continue to choose the side of racial equity and an end to systemic racism and prejudice, and we will not stop.