There is a strong and growing movement among housing advocates to advance policies and programs that ensure that all people—regardless of their income level, racial or ethnic background, or country of origin—have access to healthy and affordable housing. This movement is increasingly focused on building support for quality, affordable housing in all communities and helping people understand why housing is vital to our collective prosperity. When it comes to building public support for this agenda, there is a lot of work to be done. While the housing and community development movement is growing, the public discussion seems to be stuck.

Broadening public thinking on housing issues, increasing support for necessary policies, and sparking action and engagement is more challenging than ever before. There is a general difficulty among the public to see housing as an issue that requires greater attention from policymakers, and people struggle to see the connection between housing, equity, and inclusive communities. To the extent that public support is necessary to enact policies and establish programs that promote equity and inclusion, advocates face an uphill battle.