This podcast explores the impact of eviction on marginalized communities, focusing on the experiences of black women and their children. It discusses the connection between eviction and adverse health outcomes, the reasons behind the higher eviction rates experienced by black women with children, and the implications of evictions and mass incarceration on family structures. It also highlights the lack of savings among Black Americans, the importance of housing as a human right, and the argument against providing back rent assistance.
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Quick takeaways
Black women are disproportionately affected by evictions due to economic disparities and limited access to affordable childcare.
Eviction policies have historically perpetuated systemic barriers for black women, and addressing evictions requires comprehensive policy solutions.
Deep dives
The Impact of Evictions on Black Women and Children
Evictions have a profound impact on black women and children, who are disproportionately affected by this issue. Economic disenfranchisement plays a significant role, as black mothers often struggle to afford rent due to racial wealth gaps and pay disparities. Less money for childcare exacerbates the problem, as black women are more likely to live in childcare deserts and have limited access to affordable options. Evictions have devastating consequences on health, with children experiencing poor cognitive development, higher hospitalization rates, and increased risk of asthma. For adults, evictions lead to emotional trauma, depression, and exposure to environmental toxins. The scarlet letter of eviction follows individuals, making it difficult to find new housing. Solutions to address evictions include universal care infrastructure, including universal childcare and paid family leave, robust rental assistance programs, and automatic sealing of eviction records to provide a fresh start.
The History and Policies Shaping Evictions
Evictions have deep roots in history and are influenced by various policies. The man in the house policies, which barred welfare benefits to women with intimate relationships with single men, disproportionately affected black women. Rental assistance programs and housing voucher regulations continue to perpetuate systemic barriers, inhibiting access to stable housing. The cycle of poverty exacerbates these challenges, with evictions leading to financial instability, reduced access to healthcare and proper housing, and an increased risk of unemployment. Policies must be designed with a human-first approach, to address racial disparities and target the root causes of eviction.
The Disproportionate Impact on Black Women
Black women face a disproportionate burden when it comes to evictions. They make up a significant percentage of those affected by eviction filings and court-ordered evictions. Economic disparities, compounded by racial wealth gaps and pay inequalities, contribute to their vulnerability. Additionally, the higher cost of childcare for black families further exacerbates the risk of eviction for black women with children. Evictions have long-lasting consequences, with records of eviction hindering access to future housing and perpetuating the cycle of poverty.
Policy Solutions and the Path Forward
Addressing the eviction problem requires comprehensive policy solutions. A universal care infrastructure, including universal childcare, summer school, and paid family and medical leave, would help alleviate the financial burden on families. Funding robust rental assistance programs is crucial to providing immediate support. Automatic sealing of eviction records would allow individuals to move forward without the scarlet letter of eviction hindering their search for housing. These policy changes are not only necessary but also achievable. By lifting up the most vulnerable in society, we can create a world where evictions and poverty are no longer cruel and unnecessary realities.
According to the Eviction Lab, about 7.6 million Americans every year face the threat of eviction, and a disproportionate number of those threatened are Black women. This week, host Jonquilyn Hill sits down with New America senior writer and editor Julia Craven to discuss why this disparity exists and what policies could help end evictions for everybody. It’s the first of a special series this month entitled “Black women and ...” that examines the ways policy particularly impacts Black women.
