Support for Public Housing Residents

WHEREAS, the Federal Public Housing programs were created to address the need for decent, safe and sanitary living accommodations for persons of low income; and

WHEREAS, a significant number of public housing units are occupied by African Americans or Hispanic Americans; and

WHEREAS, since 1995, tens of thousands of housing units have been removed from the Nation's public housing stock; and

WHEREAS, current policy does not provide for ―one-for-one‖ replacement of living units that are removed and the Nation has growing and tragic problems of homelessness; and

WHEREAS, public housing resident participation is paramount as a factor in the decision-making process that directly affects their homes and living conditions; and

WHEREAS, the generational neglect by housing officials in many communities has adversely impacted the lives of individuals who reside in public housing; and

WHEREAS, traditional models of Federal Public housing have contributed to the segregation of the poor and people of color;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the National Office of the NAACP proactively encourage and actively support a Federal Policy that provides for ―one-for-one‖ replacement of public housing units proposed for demolition or disposition; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NAACP promote and advocate for Federal Public Housing models that do not isolate people of color and the poor; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the National Office of the NAACP, state conferences and local branches monitor and pursue actions to ensure that the residents of public housing be afforded the social, political, economic and educational opportunities that are available for all residents throughout the nation.