Housing segregation has been a pervasive and devastating aspect of Black history in the United States. Throughout much of the 20th century, Black Americans faced discrimination and exclusion in housing through a combination of laws, policies, and practices that enforced racial segregation.

One of the most well-known forms of housing segregation was the practice of redlining, which began in the 1930s as part of the federal government's effort to promote homeownership through the creation of the Home Owners' Loan Corporation (HOLC). Under this program, government officials and lenders designated certain neighborhoods as high-risk based on criteria that included the racial composition of the residents. These areas were outlined in red on maps, effectively denying Black Americans access to mortgage loans and investment in their communities.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) further institutionalized housing segregation through its policies that favored white homebuyers and neighborhoods. This included the practice of racial covenants, which were clauses in property deeds that prohibited Black individuals from purchasing or occupying homes in certain neighborhoods.

The legacy of housing segregation continues to impact Black communities today, contributing to disparities in wealth, education, and health. Efforts to address housing discrimination and promote fair housing practices have been ongoing, but the effects of historical segregation persist.

Despite the challenges posed by housing segregation, Black communities have shown resilience and strength in the face of systemic racism, advocating for fair housing policies and working to build and sustain thriving neighborhoods.