Message From Traci: Diversity, equity, and inclusion strengthen our communities and allow all of us to thrive.

HDC’s mission and values are firm. We are communities of all colors, all abilities, gender identities, nationalities, and ages, and we stand together.

The new presidential administration is sowing chaos and destruction, threatening our neighbors. Its unconstitutional actions, if not curbed by the courts, will harm families, communities, and country. Already at risk are funds designated to provide homes for seniors who don’t have enough money to pay rent. How can any country be great that allows its elders to be homeless?

The news cycle is bringing constant messages that give rise to anger and fear. But we find strength and hope when we come together, in community, and affirm who and what we stand for. As our country heads into difficult and uncharted territory, HDC’s mission and values are firm. We stand for, and with, historically oppressed members of our community. We will continue to steer toward a vision of care and abundance for every person.

Our allegiance is with our community-based partners—whose work, providing homes and hope to our most vulnerable neighbors, has never been more important. Groups such as Farmworker Housing Development Corporation, Bienestar, IRCO, Muslim Education Trust, and others are on the front lines of protecting Oregon’s immigrant and refugee communities. We stand with them as we stand with transgender people, and for the right of people of every gender identity to live in freedom.

Our community of practice, affordable housing, is not alone. We are part of a larger ecosystem of care and action: healthcare providers, teachers, community organizers, elected leaders, lawyers, journalists, and groups that connect and lead us, such as Coalition for Communities of Color, Rural Organizing Project, and others.

Together, we will keep working toward a future of opportunity and a beloved community for all.