This Black History Month, CAR would like to highlight three Californians who not only built incredibly successful real estate businesses during a time when racial discrimination was legal and pervasive, they also dedicated their lives to supporting their communities and fighting for social justice.
 |
Biddy Mason became a real estate entrepreneur in Los Angeles in the late 1800s after successfully fighting for her freedom from slavery in California courts at a time when Black people were not allowed to testify against Whites. Mason famously said, “If you hold your hand closed, nothing good can come in.” |
 |
Mary Ellen Pleasant not only built incredible wealth after the Gold Rush in San Francisco as a financier real estate investor, she also was a major supporter of many racial justice efforts – including her successful lawsuit against San Francisco streetcar carriers for refusing service to Black riders. |
 |
Willis Carson founded the first California REALTIST® chapter in 1949 to challenge discrimination against Black real estate professionals and Black Californians who faced pervasive housing discrimination. Frances Young, current President of the California Association of Real Estate Brokers, spoke about Mr. Carson’s legacy: “Willis E. Carson..is my Champion and Hero…we continue to fight for ‘Democracy in Housing’ in Black America.” |
We can’t think of a better way to honor the achievements of Black entrepreneurs like Biddy Mason, Mary Ellen Pleasant and Willis Carson than by working for equality and opportunity for all. The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® is committed to diversity and developing and strengthening programs that break down barriers to homeownership.
Learn more about the ways that C.A.R. works to address racial homeownership gaps and read C.A.R.’s apology for past discriminatory policies here.
