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Empowerment through education: building economic resilience to address the racial wealth divide in queer communities
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Empowerment through education: building economic resilience to address the racial wealth divide in queer communities
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1
EMPOWERMENT THROUGH EDUCATION: BUILDING ECONOMIC RESILIENCE
TO ADDRESS THE RACIAL WEALTH DIVIDE IN QUEER COMMUNITIES
Capstone Project Proposal
Lisa Morishanti, MSW, LICSW
University of Southern California
Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work
Doctor of Social Work Program
Michael G. Rank PhD, MA
August 2024
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract…………………………………………………………………………… 4
Acknowledgements……………………………………………………………….. 5
Positionality Statement……………………………………………………………. 6
Executive Summary………………………………………………………………. 7
Problem of Practice……………………………………………………………... 14
The Wicked Problem Unveiled……………………………………………….. 14
The Historical Context………………………………………………………... 15
The Present Day Dilemma…………………………………………………… 15
Theoretical Framework…………………………………………………………… 16
Methodology……………………………………………………………………… 18
Design Thinking……………………………………………………………… 18
Design Justice………………………………………………………………… 19
Market Analysis……………………………………………………………… 20
Project Description………………………………………………………………... 23
Grand Challenge for Social Work (GCSW)………………………………….. 24
Design Criteria……………………………………………………………….. 24
Prototype Description………………………………………………………… 25
Theory of Change (ToC)................................................................................... 27
Logic Model………………………………………………………………….. 28
Ethical Considerations………………………………………………………... 29
Implementation Plan………………………………………………………………. 30
Evaluation Plan……………………………………………………………………. 33
Measuring Social Change/Impact……………………………………………. 33
Data Collection Plan………………………………………………………….. 33
3
Communication Plan…………………………………………………………. 34
Challenges/Limitations………...………………………………………………….. 35
Conclusion and Implications……………………………………………………… 35
Lessons Learned……………………………………………………………… 36
Implications for Practice and Future Use…………………………………….. 36
Action Plan…………………………………………………………………… 36
Reference List……………………………………………………………………... 38
Appendix A. Design Criteria……………………………………………………… 44
Appendix B. Logic Models……………………………………………………… 45
Appendix C. Annualized and 9-Month Start-up Budget………………………….. 46
Appendix D. GANTT Chart………………………………………………………. 47
Appendix E. Prototype Materials…………………………………………………. 48
4
Abstract
Racism immobilizes the United States’ (U.S.) ability to live up to its established values
and principles - liberty and justice for all. It exposes the stark underbelly - not every human
being is created nor treated equally. The codification of racism into the fabric of this country has
resulted in inequities across all sectors, rendering the Black community in a vulnerable state. The
racial wealth divide is a complex and growing social justice crisis, especially when examining
how intersecting identities impact how someone experiences this grand challenge. The Black
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Queer (LGBTQ+) community is at high risk of this
burgeoning problem that requires multifaceted solutions rooted in human-centered design. The
two innovations presented - the Black Queer Philanthropy Project and the Black Rainbow
Housing Fund - are informed by the historical and contemporary conditions of the divide,
including the evolving public discourse regarding social justice, equity, and liberation within the
Black queer community.
Keywords: equity, LGBTQ, queer, racial wealth divide, economic disparity, racism, social
justice, wealth development
5
Acknowledgements
Words cannot capture the immense gratitude I have for everyone who has made this
academic journey possible. This process has been centered on the power of community and the
brilliance of a diverse group of stakeholders whose knowledge, experiences, and illuminating
insights have shaped the conceptualization and development of the Capstone projects. I have a
deep well of appreciation for the Chair of my Design Committee, Michael Rank, PhD, MSW.
His invaluable feedback, wisdom, and ideas have been integral to this process.
The rest of my Design Committee - Courtney Brunson, Director of the Greater Boston
Partnership to Close the Racial Wealth Gap at The Boston Foundation; Dieng Cameron, Alumni
+ Family Relations Officer at the Rhode Island School of Design; Jennifer Lowe, PhD, Vice
President of Shared Learning and Member Networks at EMPath - Economic Mobility Pathways;
Pamela Waterman, Director of the MAAH Stone Book Award and Senior Consultant at the
Stone Foundation; and Tony Wells, Director of College Access and Retention at Step to Success
of Brookline, MA - generously shared their expertise, skills, and knowledge. Additionally, this
endeavor was achievable because of the USC Dream Team - Derrick Felton, Lang Fang, and
Rebecca Wyngarden. Their continued moral support, guidance, and encouragement has been
instrumental. I am also grateful to Cohort 16, the faculty, and the DSW Student Association who
continuously inspire me with their creativity and academic prowess.
Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge my family, especially the Sweet Six
(Dallas, LeTeesha, Michelle, Pam, and my spouse, Tulsidas Morishanti), Alex, Frankie, Gisela,
Ife, Kev, Reg, and the Mills family. Their belief in me has been steadfast and heartfelt. Their
unwavering support and confidence that I can achieve any dream has catapulted me to the finish
line. I am forever indebted to them, especially to Tulsi for being my rock during this experience.
6
Positionality Statement
In the spirit of introspection, it is imperative that I acknowledge the experiences that
paved the path towards focusing on reducing the racial wealth divide. The first pivotal instance is
the victimization that my father endured at his place of employment. Despite seeking guidance
and support from his supervisor at the textile mill where he worked, my father was left to
contend on his own the ongoing harassment by two of his White co-workers. It culminated in my
father being stabbed in the abdomen with garment shears. This horrific incident of violence,
which resulted in my father’s permanent disability, impacted my family in many ways. The quest
to achieve the American Dream of homeownership and financial security was lost.
The second pivotal moment is losing my first home during the foreclosure crisis of 2008.
My spouse and I were involved in the Attorney General’s lawsuit against our mortgage lender
who targeted marginalized communities. The loans were subprime even if the recipients had
good credit scores and stable employment. Although the Attorney General won the lawsuit, we
had to sell our first home and had limited housing options to explore.
The third pivotal occurrence solidified my commitment to advocate for pay equity. When
I was promoted to an executive role at my previous employer, the Chief Executive Officer
initially offered me a $5,000 increase. To put this into context, employees in regional
management roles made $35,000 more a year than I was being offered. Although I was able to
negotiate a higher amount, it was not comparable to what regional directors were making.
These experiences shaped how I have come to understand the research I continue to do.
The systematic ways that I and members of my community have been oppressed is profound.
However, it is essential that I am aware of potential biases that may exist so that the proposal
reflects different perspectives, is informed and supported by well vetted data.
7
Executive Summary
The Problem of Practice
Racism has a significant impact on the Black community’s ability to access educational
and employment opportunities, quality healthcare, lending products, and retirement benefits
(Asante-Mohammad et al., 2020). As various research articles demonstrate, structural racism
reinforces policies and procedures that create financial vulnerability within the Black community
(Shapiro et al., 2019). There are extensive discriminatory practices in not-for-profit, private, and
public sectors, including academia, the forensic system, financial institutions, medical and
behavioral health services, affordable and market-rate housing, labor markets, and in the
technology industry (Weller & Roberts, 2021).
The codification of racism into the infrastructure of the United States (U.S.) has
contributed to the widening wealth divide between Black and White Households. This injustice
has a social, economic, and political impact on Americans. The divide is a result of centuries of
intentional legislative decision-making that manifests in a multitude of disadvantages, especially
for the Black community (Brown, 2012). The National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
expounds on the importance of dismantling barriers to work towards social justice, equity, and
liberation (NASW, 2021). Reducing the divide, therefore, has become one of the biggest social
work challenges of this time.
The Link
A reckoning is erupting from the continued minimization of how the institution of slavery
and subsequent policymaking has impacted the economic health of the U.S. Specifically, the
Black community is beholden to this country despite having been coerced into unpaid labor. The
divide is a symptom of centering whiteness (and anti-blackness) when establishing the
8
foundation of this country. Segregation and disenfranchisement laws, redlining, subprime
lending products, the deregulation of the private sector, and state and federal tax policies have
had a disparate impact on the Black community since their inception (Shapiro et al., 2019). The
need for truth, reconciliation, healing, and accountability is palpable (Jemal et al., 2020). As the
country embarks on the upcoming presidential election, there is an opportunity to acknowledge
the legislative efforts to weave racism into its structure and work towards redemption (Brown,
2012).
For the country to emerge without further impact; federal, state, and local governments
have to better understand what holds the divide in place, the historical and contemporary context,
and the sophisticated constellation of solutions available to resolve this wicked problem. This
reckoning requires an introspective analysis and decision-making entities that are more reflective
of the communities they represent. This includes understanding the nuanced experience of
individuals who may have intersecting identities. As highlighted in anecdotal data collection
efforts, the experience of several members of the Black queer community suggests that there are
additional factors to take into consideration when developing wealth building opportunities.
The Black queer community may experience decreased access to education, employment,
medical and mental health services, and housing at higher rates than their White queer and
heteronormative counterparts (Rosentel et al., 2020; Whitfield et al., 2014). Using various data
sets, including the Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey (HPS), Kent and Scott (2022)
discovered that LGBTQ+ adults had less income than straight adults. Furthermore, they
discovered that bisexual women, transgender and nonbinary adults have the least amount of
assets in comparison to others.
9
The two Capstone projects presented - the Black Queer Philanthropy Project and the
Black Rainbow Housing Fund - are influenced by the following two Grand Challenges for Social
Work: Reduce Extreme Economic Inequality and Eliminate Racism. The goal of both projects is
to increase access and to enhance existing wealth building opportunities by integrating additional
resources, technical assistance, guidance, and support to achieve financial stability over time.
Both are informed by the conditions of the divide, including the evolving public discourse
regarding equity in Black queer spaces.
Design Justice and Methodology
Ayanna Pressley, the Congresswomen for District 7 in Massachusetts, is often quoted as
saying, “Those closest to the pain are the closest to the power - driving and informing
policymaking” (Pressley, 2024, p.1). This is inherent when thinking about design justice
principles. From conceptualization to implementation, the people who are most impacted by the
problem should be centered in the design process. Design justice ensures that the process is
accessible, collaborative, inclusive, and transparent (Liedtka & Ogilvie, 2019). Throughout this
journey, the voices of those most impacted have been woven into the creation of the two
prototypes. The diverse perspectives and experiences have elicited creative ideas, additional
considerations, limitations, and design enhancements that otherwise would not have been
integrated.
The conceptualization and development of the prototypes included integrating
information learned during EMPath’s Disrupting Poverty Conference 2024 and the “Fifteen
Cents on the Dollar: A Conversation about the Racial Wealth Gaps in Boston and Beyond”
event; reviewing research articles, books, and documentaries about the divide, intersectionality,
and subsequent solutions; conducting individual interviews with local community stakeholders,
10
leaders, and researchers; hosting a design lab to collect feedback about the two prototypes; and
disseminating two brief surveys (one to gather information about the community’s understanding
of the problem and the other to gather feedback about the two prototypes). As such, both are
directly influenced by the people doing and being impacted by the divide.
Theory of Change
Critical Race Theory (CRT) helps shape and inform how intersectionality influences the
experience of the divide in the Black community. The initial survey and concurrent individual
interviews that took place highlight the ways in which members of the Black queer community
may experience additional barriers when accessing educational and employment opportunities,
sound lending products, retirement benefits, and quality healthcare. All of which impacts their
ability to generate and transmit wealth to future generations. Additionally, there is evidence to
suggest that homeownership and entrepreneurship continue to be viable wealth building
strategies should an individual have the support, financial resources, technical assistance, and
guidance in place.
As indicated by research, strategies that are community centered and driven result in the
intended outcomes as they are informed by the end users’ experiences (Kijakazi, 2016). By
enhancing existing strategies based on evolving needs of the Black queer community, the two
prototypes bridge different elements together to achieve the intended outcome. The theory of
change centers the people most impacted, including institutional and community leaders;
establishes a shared understanding of the problem and solution landscape; enhances and
strengthens existing strategies; integrates design justice principles; gathers and evaluates data to
understand impact at predetermined intervals.
11
Professional Significance
The identified projects will contribute to reducing the divide and will incite a desire to
learn more about the nuanced experience of the Black queer community. This process has
unveiled the need for further research to better understand how intersectionality plays a role.
Although there has been an increased interest in exploring the differences across demographics,
the existing data sets are limited in scope. Nevertheless, the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
has published several blogs with emerging trends that highlight the differences that exist within
LGBTQ+ households (Kent & Scott, 2022). In addition, there is a need to effectively leverage
internal and external resources.
Although there is a need for a variety of interventions across sectors, the projects will
provide a pathway to wealth building activities that are reflective of the needs and strengths of
the Black queer community. It is important to recognize what holds the divide in place. Racism,
homophobia, biphobia, sexism, and transphobia is woven throughout each facet of the U.S.
Therefore, there needs to be a focus on legislative efforts - such as guaranteed income and
modification to state and federal tax codes - that address the systemic ways in which the Black
community is rendered financially vulnerable.
Implementation Plan
The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment (EPIS) framework helps
establish a clear roadmap and was the impetus for developing a comprehensive plan (Becan et
al., 2018). Throughout this process, a diverse group of stakeholders were identified and included
in the conceptualization, development, and implementation planning. In the exploration phase,
stakeholders shared critical insights, ideas, and concerns that helped shape and inform the
evolution of the prototypes. The preparation phase centered on identifying the resources needed,
12
including necessary staffing, to ensure a successful implementation. Since this work is about
bridging existing resources and fine tuning the type of support and guidance provided, the
projects require a seasoned Director-level professional.
The design lab generated additional ideas to consider, including offering a training series
for identified financial institutions to build cultural humility and a shared understanding of the
divide. Cultivating a list of queer-friendly providers and vendors is paramount to ensure the
resources identified appreciate and respect the experiences of participants. A future iteration may
offer educational opportunities in the school system for young people to learn about what
currently holds the divide in place, what could be done on the mezzo and macro level, what they
could do to advocate for systemic change, and how they could integrate effective financial
decision-making into their lives.
In the implementation phase, the goal is to establish the “Black Rainbow Partnership”
bridging three key partners, including The Boston Foundation, The New Commonwealth Racial
Equity and Social Justice Fund, and a local community development corporation as all these
entities have been adopting opportunities for the community to build wealth. During this phase, a
campaign will be launched to raise funding for these projects by raising awareness and
cultivating a donor base. The “Closing the Racial Wealth Divide in Queer Communities - One
Donation at a Time” campaign will be shaped by the ongoing feedback provided by the spectrum
of stakeholders identified. The established partnership will subsequently launch the campaign at
the “Pathways to Reducing the Wealth Divide in Black Queer Communities” event.
Subsequently, an event will be held to report the outcome of the campaign to increase visibility
and transparency regarding progress made.
13
It is imperative to establish effective methods to sustain the financial viability of the
projects. The goal is to integrate sound resource development practices. One such practice may
include initiating a sustained giving program that allows for supporters to donate a small amount
on a monthly basis. Another is to integrate legacy giving for households who would like to
transmit wealth to future generations. It creates a mechanism for philanthropic giving for
individuals who are seeking an opportunity to have a meaningful impact. The hope is to build a
donor base that is community centered and driven and fueled by a commitment to social justice,
equity, and liberation.
The next steps include hosting additional focus groups to garner more feedback as well as
scheduling one-to-one meetings with potential partners to discuss additional findings, partnership
opportunities, and ways to bridge existing resources.
14
Problem of Practice
Racism is pervasive, deleterious, and has rendered the U.S. into a vulnerable state
(Golash-Boza, 2016; Williams, 2022). It permeates every aspect of people’s lived experience and
strips the Black community of their human rights. The codification of racism into the sociopolitical infrastructure of this country minimizes the strength and power of the diversity that
exists here and beyond (Tatum, 2017). The need to integrate the experience of the people most
harmed in the development of comprehensive strategies to uproot the hold that racism has on the
country persists. This effort requires stakeholders, regardless of their respective identities and
affiliations, to address past injustices and present day realities collaboratively and with a
commitment to social justice and equity (Rothstein, 2017).
The Wicked Problem Unveiled
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) maintains that working towards
social justice and racial equity is an essential part of the profession’s ethical principles (NASW,
2021). Numerous research articles highlight how structural racism reinforces policies,
procedures, and practices that render the Black community financially vulnerable (Shapiro et al.,
2019). In the U.S., the majority of the wealthiest 1% are White households. These individuals
have grown wealthier while the majority of the people face economic instability (Collins et al.,
2019, p. 4). The widening racial wealth divide limits the Black community’s ability to access
education, healthcare, employment, entrepreneurial opportunities, and retirement benefits in
meaningful and equitable ways (Asante-Mohammad et al., 2020).
The evidence is vast. As demonstrated by the lived experience of stakeholders, the
financial exploitation of the Black community is evident in the higher concentration of payday
loan centers and/or banking institutions that provide subprime lending products to prospective
15
home buyers and small business owners in disenfranchised neighborhoods. Despite a growing
understanding, the country has yet to address the fundamental impact and subsequent aftereffects
of chattel slavery. After the Emancipation Proclamation, the Black community was instead
financially indebted to the U.S. despite having been coerced and forced into unpaid labor. As
such, this country has a responsibility to acknowledge the truth of its history with a focus on
reconciliation, synergic healing, and instituting effective accountability measures (Jemal et al.,
2020).
The Historical Context
Truth and reconciliation requires the path towards progress and liberation from the
shackles that bind to be paved by the knowledge acquired through a careful examination of how
the U.S. has operated for centuries. The divide is a symptom of white supremacy culture and the
insidious centralization of anti-blackness. Historical and contemporary local, state, and federal
policies and legislation - including the Jim Crow laws, the regulation of the private sector, and
the tax codes - continue to significantly impact Black households since the Emancipation
Proclamation (Brown, 2012; Brown, 2021; Shapiro et al., 2019). A clear example that highlights
the impact is the establishment of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) in 1934 in
response to the recession. The FHA introduced a “segregated system of geographically coded
maps that were used to exclude Black people from home financing while segregating
communities on the basis of race” furthering the subjugation of the Black community (Shapiro et
al., 2019, p. 8).
The Present-Day Dilemma
Per local experts, research that explores the nuances that may exist for Black individuals
who also identify as being part of the LGBTQ+ community is minimal. The lack of research
16
presents an untapped opportunity to garner a richer understanding. Living in an environment
where different forms of oppression (including racism, xenophobia, sexism, biphobia,
homophobia, and transphobia) exists may impact one’s psychosocial functioning and ability to
build wealth (Whitfield et al., 2014).
Per Kent & Scott (2022), queer individuals experience higher rates of economic
vulnerability than their heteronormative counterparts. Specifically, bisexual women, transgender
and nonbinary individuals have less assets. In addition, some may experience higher rates of
being unhoused, a decreased possibility of receiving familial financial support, estrangement
from family of origin, employment and income inequality (Toesland, 2021). When accounting
for racial identity, the Black queer community tends to experience increased difficulty securing
viable housing options, employment and educational opportunities (Whitfield et al., 2014).
Theoretical Framework
The divide is multidimensional and requires a comprehensive array of interventions
(Noel et al., 2019). The underlying theoretical framework is the Critical Race Theory (CRT).
CRT centers race as a social construct and demonstrates the way in which it influences and
impacts public policy; the criminal justice system; the spectrum of sectors; public discourse; and
interpersonal interactions (Sawchuk, 2021). Social injustices and racial inequity are woven
within and throughout the U.S. and beyond (Reece, 2019). In the aftermath of slavery, legislation
was ratified to financially oppress Black people which resulted in minimal compensation across
various industries and sectors (Boguslaw & Brice, 2021). This led to the stark racial differences
in the intergenerational transmission of wealth. Public discourse often focuses on individual
behavior and decision-making instead of the systemic framework that holds the divide in place
(Hamilton & Darity, 2010). As implied throughout, “accumulating wealth and gaining financial
17
security is more than a matter of exhibiting financial discipline” (Williams, 2017, p. 322).
There are additional factors that would benefit from further exploration, including the
role of colorism within the Black community. Colorism impacts Black Americans in profound
ways (Reece, 2019). Ray et al. (2017) suggests that Afro-pessimism, a hyper focus on antiblackness rather than white supremacy, is the overarching force weaving racist ideology
throughout systems. Therefore, the Black community is degraded and objectified. Evidence
suggests that Black Americans that have lighter skin tones and stereotypically White features
may have more advantages than Black Americans with darker skin tones and stereotypically
African features (Reece, 2019). Additionally, Goldsmith et al. (2007) found that Black men with
lighter skin tones receive higher pay than Black men with darker skin. When centralizing antiblackness, colorism influences, informs, and shapes policy making and enforcement (Ray et al.,
2017).
The other crucial, underlying framework is the presence of intersectionality of identities
throughout the human experience. Crenshaw (1995) conceptualized intersectionality to explore
how intersecting identities, such as gender, class, and race, influences how one navigates the
world. Social identities compounding upon one another may result in additional challenges that
the individual must then overcome (Golash-Boza, 2016). As demonstrated by various studies, the
Black queer community may experience reduced access to safe and sanitary housing options,
lucrative employment, support and assistance, which in turn may affect social, health, and
economic outcomes (Rosentel et al., 2020; Whitfield et al., 2014).
It is imperative to identify and understand the scope and the factors that impact equitable
access to wealth development opportunities during the creation of innovative solutions.
Furthermore, it requires an intentional commitment to integrate the voices of those most
18
impacted and implement multifaceted interventions at the local, state, and federal level. For
example, adoption of new legislation, enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, and communitybased programming all strive towards establishing fairness and equity throughout existing
systems.
Methodology
When creating solutions that are rooted in human-centered design and design justice
principles, it is important to recognize and integrate the experiences of the end user. Although
the data collection process included carefully reviewing peer-reviewed research studies,
reputable agency reports, books and newspaper articles, the most compelling aspect was the
numerous conversations that took place with a spectrum of stakeholders, including experts and
leaders from different sectors and communities and people with lived experience. Their
invaluable insights informed further research and opportunities for intervention. The proposals
subsequently emerged from the aforementioned variety of data collection methods.
Design Thinking
The Design Committee is composed of people who have a vested interest in reducing
extreme economic inequality, racial injustice, and promoting a world that is rooted in the
liberation of all people. The Design Committee includes, but is not limited to, the following
individuals: Courtney Brunson, Esq., Director of the Greater Boston Partnership to Close the
Racial Wealth Gap at The Boston Foundation; Dieng Cameron, MNPL, Alumni + Family
Relations Officer at the Rhode Island School of Design; Jennifer Lowe, Ph.D., Vice President of
Shared Learning and Member Networks at EMPath - Economic Mobility Pathways, Pamela
Waterman, MPH, Director of the MAAH Stone Book Award and Senior Consultant at the Stone
Foundation; and Tony Wells, M.Ed., Director of College Access and Retention at Step to
19
Success of Brookline, MA. The committee, along with other experts such as Janet Boguslaw,
Ph.D., Senior Research Scientist II at the Heller School and Institute for Economic and Racial
Equity; Sara Chaganti, Ph.D., Deputy Director of Research in Regional & Community Outreach
at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston; Ana Hernández Kent, Ph.D., Senior Researcher at the
Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis; Jeannette Huezo, Executive Director at United for a Fair
Economy; Scott Knox, MPA, Director of the Equality Fund at The Boston Foundation; and
Thomas Shapiro, Ph.D., David R. Pokross Professor of Law and Social Policy at The Heller
School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University contributed to the designs in
various ways. They provided feedback regarding the scope of the problem and the solution
landscape, suggested connections to other organizations and additional data sources, and shared
ideas of how to enhance the designs. Since there is so much movement in introducing new
strategies in the Boston community, their contributions have been vital and timely.
Design Justice
Human-centered design focuses on the importance of the end-user experience and a
community-based process that is innovative, iterative, collaborative, and inclusive (Liedtka &
Ogilvie, 2019). For social innovations to achieve the intended outcome, it has to take into
account the lived experience of the people rendered most vulnerable, their respective goals, and
the limitations that may exist. The designs must inherently sustain and empower the community
in an effort to achieve liberation from exploitative and oppressive systems and practices. As
highlighted by Kijakazi (2016), welcoming and involving a representative range of stakeholders
helps develop a better understanding of the breadth of the problem and innovative ways to
resolve them.
The integration of various perspectives can highlight subtle differences, which leads to
20
responsive solutions that are rooted in equity. As such, the data collection process included
individual interviews with community experts and leaders, one to one meetings with local and
national researchers, a design lab, and two brief surveys (one about the community’s
understanding of the problem and existing solutions and the other about the Capstone proposals).
The designs, therefore, are directly influenced by a wide range of thought partners.
Market Analysis
Throughout this process, it is clear that there is a concerted effort to institute an array of
strategies. The impetus in Boston was the publication by The Federal Reserve Bank of Boston,
Duke University, and the New School entitled The Color of Wealth in Boston that initiated a
series of endeavors across the city, identifying the divide as a key issue. Although the sample
size used was small, the discovery that the median wealth of White households amounted to
$247,500 in comparison to Black households whose median wealth amounted to $8 was
astounding and had a ripple effect across the city (Muñoz et al., 2015). Sara Chaganti, Ph.D. has
been leading the charge to replicate this study and revise the survey used to better understand the
scope of the divide by collecting additional data points that will inform future recommendations.
This is an integral part of becoming adept in developing interventions that are timely and
relevant.
Several community development corporations (CDC) alongside other not-for-profit
organizations continue to promote homeownership opportunities, entrepreneurship and
investment of small businesses as a means to increase economic stability. The programs that
emerged often provide education, small grants, and technical assistance. However, Kroeger and
Wright (2021) discovered that Black-owned businesses are less likely to remain open after four
years. The data used to arrive at this discovery was from the longitudinal Panel Study of Income
21
Dynamics (PSID) and included information collected from 2009 to 2017. Furthermore, the data
analysis suggested that Black entrepreneurs are less likely to experience the benefits of having a
successful entrepreneurship experience and more likely to face penalties when not successful.
These findings present an opportunity for social innovation as this approach can result in
downward economic mobility for the Black community.
A promising strategy was highlighted by Boguslaw and Brice’s (2021) analysis of
qualitative data gathered from employees who work in 21 companies and who had the
opportunity to benefit from the profits generated by their respective employer in addition to
earning income. Based on the synthesis of the data, it appears that employees tend to be more
engaged and driven to succeed as they have a vested stake in productivity and overall
performance. As indicated, it is a smart business decision to consider profit sharing as it
increases staff morale, productivity, and employee engagement. Employer-based profit sharing
models, according to national data, appear to increase the amount of savings households are able
to accumulate.
Initiatives to create a higher education pathway that is low to no cost is another series of
programs across the country that have been piloted. Nevertheless, the financial burden that
communities of color continue to face is tremendous. According to Seamster and CharronChénier’s (2017), 20% of a Black household’s total debt in comparison to 8% of a White
household’s total debt is related to higher education. Although obtaining college degrees has
often been looked at as an avenue to achieve increased income and wealth, educational debt
impacts a household’s ability to save, accumulate, and transmit wealth.
Many other recommendations have been analyzed and fine-tuned across different
categories that represent programs, power, and process (Asad-Muhammad et al., 2019). The
22
programs category includes the development of Children’s Savings Accounts, federally
mandated livable income, guaranteed employment, expansion of affordable housing options
(including down payment assistance programs), affordable healthcare coverage for all, and
increasing access to financial institutions (such as postal banking). There is a need to adopt new
legislation and policies that are inclusive and expand the community’s ability to generate and
transmit wealth (Asante-Muhammad et al., 2019). For example, several elected officials have
committed to examining state and federal tax codes and its role in widening the divide to inform
recommendations and future decision-making (Brown, 2021).
As discussed with researchers from the Federal Reserve Bank in different states, the data
sets available that are often used - the Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey (HPS), the
Federal Reserve Board’s Survey of Household Economics and Decision-making (SHED), and
the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF) - are limited in scope (Kent & Scott, 2022). As such,
Asad-Muhammad et al. (2019) suggests improving data collection efforts, including the use of
the National Asset Scorecard for Communities of Color (NASCC) and the creation of a
Congressional Committee on Reparations amongst other considerations.
In Boston, many of the aforementioned interventions have been operationalized in a
variety of ways. In 2022, the Boston Foundation created the Greater Boston Partnership to Close
the Racial Wealth Gap to focus on the expansion of homeownership opportunities in
communities of color through increasing the housing stock, financial assistance, and affordable
mortgage loan products. The Boston Foundation also created the Equity Fund in 2012 to provide
funding for not-for-profit organizations working with the queer community. This fund is guided
by an Advisory Committee composed of people with lived experience and their respective allies.
23
The New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund was created in 2020 by
nineteen Black and Brown executives with a shared commitment to combat systemic racism in
inventive ways. One of their pillars is to support individuals, community-based groups and
coalitions who are initiating effective wealth development strategies. Since their inception, they
have donated approximately 2.7 million dollars to further the economic development of
disenfranchised neighborhoods. The Imperative Fund concentrates on local and global efforts to
advance wealth and a sense of community across the African Diaspora, accounting for the
cultural differences that may exist. Madison Park Development Corporation (MPDC), a
neighborhood-based CDC, introduced the Next Door Individualized Development Account
(IDA) program in 2021, providing an opportunity for first-time homebuyers from the Roxbury
neighborhood to access educational resources, guidance, support, and down payment assistance.
Although these Boston-based programs have created a myriad of pathways, their
scalability is dependent on a variety of factors, including the socio-political and economic
climate. In addition, the knowledge gap about how the divide impacts the Black queer
community is extensive. Since there are unique aspects to their experience as discovered through
local data collection efforts, this part of the community appears to be omitted in the
conceptualization, development, and implementation of these existing strategies. As such, the
Black queer community may not fully benefit from the initiatives, pilots, and programs that have
been launched.
Project Description
The proposed projects strive to reduce the barriers that the Black queer community
encounters when accessing opportunities to increase wealth (Whitfield et al., 2014).
Entrepreneurship and homeownership, as established by numerous research studies, continues to
24
be effective wealth building strategies (Asante-Muhammad et al., 2020). The two solutions
proposed, the Black Queer Philanthropy Project and the Black Rainbow Housing Fund, endeavor
to create an easy-to-follow roadmap that includes the following pillars - comprehensive training,
mentorship, guidance, technical support, and monetary assistance. Although providing monetary
assistance is a significant pillar, the ongoing support, guidance and technical assistance postcompletion of the initial training is a critical element to sustain success.
Grand Challenges for Social Work (GCSW)
Racism strips away the ability to celebrate the strength and power of diversity in this
country. It has a substantial cost and has infinite consequences (McGhee, 2021). It places and
will place a significant burden on the country’s economy in the amount of one to one and half
trillion dollars by 2028 using the Oxford model of financial forecasting if the growth of White
wealth and the decline of Black wealth continue (Noel et al., 2019). Eradicating racism and
reducing extreme economic inequality are the two GCSW that inform both projects. The projects
aspire to create inclusive, collaborative spaces where stakeholders work together to reduce the
divide and address the social injustices that persist.
Design Criteria
The Design Criteria (see Appendix A) is informed by design justice principles. It
integrates comprehensive research analysis and findings, targets the Black queer community, and
includes a diverse group of stakeholders. Many of these individuals have been and continue to be
impacted by systemic and structural oppression. The conceptualization, development, and
implementation of these projects includes building a shared understanding of how the
convergence of racism, xenophobia, sexism, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, and stigma
impacts public discourse and policy development. The need to consider the experience of
25
individuals with different racial and ethnic identities within the LGBTQ+ community emerged
throughout this process (Whitfield et al., 2014).
Prototype Description
The Black Queer Philanthropy Project
Although there are funds that focus on racial, economic, and gender equality (such as
Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice, Funders for LGBTQ Issues, and the New
Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund), few sources focus on individual
recipients. One pillar that is missing from existing funds is the importance of capacity building
for individuals who may not have access to education, financing, and support. The need to create
opportunities for philanthropic giving that targets this often neglected part of the Black
community surfaced from interviews that had taken place.
The project will provide educational and professional growth opportunities, mentorship,
and seed funding to help finance an entrepreneurial venture. In providing the financial assistance,
comprehensive training and establishing partnerships with community-based institutions,
participants will experience less barriers. The high fidelity prototype includes the design and
structure that focuses on key partnerships; an outline of the curriculum for the four week
intensive which highlights social innovation; entrepreneur do’s and don’ts; effective leadership
and team development; and creative resource development strategies. After the provision of the
financial assistance, recipients will receive technical assistance and access to professional
coaching. This leverages the skills of community leaders who will provide knowledge, guidance,
and support on an ongoing basis. The coaching sessions aim to help recipients continue their
personal and professional growth.
26
The Black Rainbow Housing Fund
This economic pathway to build wealth will be a collaborative effort and will require
partnering with local organizations to provide access to first-time homebuyer certificate
programs; down payment assistance; assistance with identifying and securing legal counsel; and
ongoing support post-purchase for up to two years. Programs that provide increased financial
support tend to be more impactful (Calef et al., 2023). As such, this fund focuses primarily on
providing down payment assistance after the completion of the standard first-time homebuyer
training curriculum and the provision of support, especially post-purchase, because of the
complexities of sustaining a home over time. The goal is to build equity on the investment and
maximize the existing benefits of homeownership.
The prototype includes the structure and design, which will name existing programs that
offer first-time homebuyer certificates. The prototype integrates a sample outline of the training
modules that are provided post-purchase as there is not enough emphasis on how to help
homeowners make informed-decisions to build equity and maintain the physical integrity of their
homes. If individuals want to purchase a home together, they will be provided with information
about different models to consider, including housing cooperatives and land trust
homeownership opportunities. The information will include a comprehensive overview of the
models, limitations, and benefits. Since there is a higher incidence of familial estrangement and
lack of social support in the Black queer community, a housing cooperative or land trust
homeownership model may provide an opportunity to pool financial resources, build a sense of
community, and reclaim a sense of power and control in regards to their financial health.
However, there are pitfalls to these models that have been explored by community activists and
real estate professionals.
27
Theory of Change
As indicated by the data collection results, the Black queer community is immobilized by
systemic and structural oppression resulting in limited access to existing opportunities.
Stakeholders who were interviewed indicate that racism and homophobia is present in academia,
workplaces, and when identifying and securing viable housing options. Stakeholders shared
numerous experiences that highlight how their intersecting identities exposed them to additional
vulnerabilities, especially in their ability to generate wealth. For example, one person shared how
estrangement from their family made them realize they had no financial safety net should they
experience an economic crisis. Another individual remained closeted at work as there were signs
of disparate treatment on the basis of race, sex, and sexual orientation. When this Black queer
woman left her employer, she was informed that the individual hired to replace her did not have
a Masters level degree yet made substantially more as a White, straight, cisgender man. When
these types of experiences occur, it highlights the profound effects of discrimination on overall
wellbeing, including an individual’s ability to be financially stable.
According to the Insight Center for Community and Economic Development (Kijakazi,
2016), the inclusion of different perspectives and voices is fundamental when conceptualizing,
developing, implementing, and sustaining social innovations. The Center convened experts from
impacted communities to develop a shared understanding and definition of wealth. They
subsequently developed approaches that were inclusive of their experiences and values. The
strategies that were community driven were more successful as they were informed by their
experiences (Kijakazi, 2016).
Although policy-based recommendations have not yielded results as they have yet to be
adopted (Asante-Muhammad et al., 2019), there are entities across sectors that have implemented
28
effective down payment assistance programs and financial assistance initiatives for entrepreneurs
(Calef et al.,2023). Although some down payment assistance and affordable homeownership
programs have limited impact as they often are income and/or deed restricted, they do present
opportunities otherwise unavailable to vulnerable communities. The proposed solutions integrate
the strengths of existing programs while adopting modifications that are responsive to the
evolving needs of the Black queer community. The solutions bridge and enhance existing efforts
to effectively leverage resources.
The theory of change includes centering and working with the individuals most impacted,
neighborhood-based financial institutions, elected officials, and community leaders to explore
the array of resources available; arriving to a shared understanding of the complexity of the
problem; enhancing existing and proposed approaches; ensuring the prototypes reflect humancentered design; and gathering data pre and post-implementation at multiple intervals to gauge
whether the intended outcomes are achieved over the course of time.
Revised Logic Model
The Black Queer Philanthropy Project
The revised logic model (see Appendix B) for the project highlights a marketing
campaign that raises awareness and encourages people to donate to the community-based
funding source that supports entrepreneurship. The goal of the project is to create access to
guidance, coaching, and support from community leaders and experts, comprehensive training,
and seed funding to launch an entrepreneurial venture. If this project is successful, the participant
will increase the following: their knowledge about entrepreneurship and best business practices,
ability to financially sustain their venture, earnings, and savings with a focus on diversifying
their financial portfolio.
29
The Black Rainbow Housing Fund
The revised logic model (Appendix B) for the fund highlights the changes that have been
made to the prototype, including a review of housing cooperative and land trust homeownership
models for participants who express interest. The fund will establish formal partnerships with
local organizations to offer first-time homebuyer certificate programs, provide training for
financial institutions to raise awareness about the divide and the fund, create a funding stream to
provide down payment assistance, and develop the post-purchase technical assistance and
available resources guide. If this fund is successful, participants will increase the following: their
overall knowledge of the benefits and limitations of homeownership, financial literacy, and the
factors that sustain homeownership as a worthwhile investment; their ability to sustain their
homeowner status for at least 3 years; their financial assets; and ability to invest.
Ethical Considerations
The underlying premise that the divide exists due to individual choices made that are
upheld by cultural norms, practices and values minimizes the profound impact of racism
(Galvan, 2020). The divide persists even if a Black household has achieved the same level of
higher education and earned income; are homeowners; and engage in asset building activities as
their White counterpart (Williamson, 2020). It is not an issue of trying harder - it is an issue of
systemic structures prohibiting the Black community’s access and ability to thrive.
However, when an initiative, pilot, and/or program specifically targets a subset of the
population, public discourse may erupt about equity, fairness, and inclusion. As evident in social
and mainstream media, there is a growing belief across the country that racism is not a bedrock
of the country’s foundation. Since White households benefit from the centralization of whiteness,
the prototypes that have been developed may not gain the traction and support they need to be
30
successful. Therefore, the messaging has to be compelling to the general public and there may
need to be a reframing of how these prototypes are delivered. For example, neighborhood based
with a preference for members of the Black queer community. Addressing the divide benefits the
whole from an economic and social standpoint as highlighted by the data presented.
Likelihood of Success
Success is contingent upon developing a network of support in the various sectors to
leverage existing resources in a different way. Raising awareness of the presenting issue is
critical as there may not be a clear understanding of the universal impacts. Since there is a
growing interest in reducing the divide across the city of Boston, it is imperative to capitalize on
this momentum and introduce something to the market that addresses an existing gap. The hope
is that there is an appetite to generate and implement these innovative solutions.
Implementation Plan
The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment (EPIS) framework is a
comprehensive roadmap to implement and sustain an evidenced-based practice or program
(Becan et al., 2018). In the exploration phase, stakeholders who identify as being part of the
Black queer community were interviewed. Although there is minimal research that helps the
various sectors understand all of the complexities of how the divide manifests in the Black queer
community, stakeholders expressed a desire for there to be an initiative that catered to the unique
needs that exist. Although there is overarching interest in the initial findings of the data
collection process, there are some individuals interviewed who expressed concern about the
prototypes being too complex and the eligibility requirements being too rigid as the experience
of the queer community is vast. These concerns are important to consider as they represent a
potential challenge that may erupt during the implementation phase.
31
The preparation phase centers on developing a comprehensive implementation plan that
includes understanding staffing needs, training and professional growth opportunities, and
identifying internal and external resources (Becan et al., 2018). Since the projects rely on
building partnerships with existing organizations doing similar work, the staffing need is
different than may be expected. The most important role is that of a seasoned Director who has
the skill and experience to bridge the work of different organizations, identify and welcome
leaders with lived experience to be mentors, offer training regarding the aspects that are new, and
help lead a marketing campaign to generate financial support.
The implementation phase requires identifying and effectively collaborating with partners
and the community for success to be achieved and preserved. The ongoing integration of
technical assistance and support is key, including identifying any additional staffing needs
(Becan et al., 2018). A consultant will be contracted to provide guidance to launch the
fundraising and visibility campaign. Although there is a desire to augment what exists, the
challenge will be how to organically weave the work that is happening in a way that achieves the
intended outcome. This phase includes establishing the Black Rainbow Partnership (BRP) with
The Boston Foundation as they are intentionally working towards closing the divide, The New
Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund as their established pillars are consistent
with the overarching value set underpinning the projects, and a local community development
corporation.
The BRP aims to empower the Black queer community by establishing partnerships and
the financial infrastructure to support innovative homeownership and entrepreneurial initiatives.
The BRP will raise awareness of the racial wealth divide and what holds it in place, establish
partnerships with local organizations and academic institutions, launch an effective marketing
32
campaign, and work to fulfill the fundraising goals to successfully launch the two Capstone
prototypes (see Appendix B). The BRP’s foundational principle is to create safe, inclusive, and
welcoming initiatives and programming for the community.
The “Closing the Racial Wealth Divide in Queer Communities - One Donation at a
Time” fundraising campaign will raise awareness of the nuanced experience of members of the
LGBTQ+ community and encourage donations to help support the aforementioned projects. The
campaign will be informed by stakeholders, including people with lived experience, and led by
the identified Director. The BRP will host an event, “Pathways to Reducing the Wealth Divide in
Black Queer Communities”, to launch the fundraising campaign and one to report back the
outcome of the campaign. The latter event will also serve as a fundraising event and opportunity
to showcase preliminary findings.
The importance of financial stability during economic uncertainty is paramount. The
long-term vision for these projects includes establishing a comprehensive resource development
approach. Major donor cultivation as well as establishing a monthly sustainer approach to giving
will be a cornerstone to the plan. One-time donations will be encouraged and accepted. At the
heart of donor cultivation is a focus on meaningful engagement and relationship building that is
sustained over time. The start-up budget (see Appendix C) includes the operating costs for the
first 9 months, which integrates the marketing effort, hosting the campaign launch event, and
initiating two pilots.
As described by Becan et al. (2018), the sustainment phase incorporates quality control
and monitoring. The overarching goal is to make sure that the projects are positioned well to
achieve the intended outcome. It requires a strong infrastructure and a commitment to provide
adequate technical assistance, training, and support to help the BRP succeed in its efforts to
33
implement the pilots. Stakeholder engagement is necessary at this phase to ensure that those who
are invested in the success continue to help shape and form new iterations. There will be ample
opportunity and mechanisms to provide feedback so that the projects remain relevant over time.
Evaluation Plan
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) determined that evaluation of practice in
micro, mezzo, and macro settings is a core competency of the profession. More importantly,
evaluation is an essential part of design justice as it creates a way to garner important data that
informs the efficacy of the projects. Social innovations should evolve with the Zeitgeist of the
time, integrating the changing needs and assets of the individuals and communities most
impacted.
Measuring Social Change/Impact
Part of an effective implementation process is having a clear plan that measures if the
social innovation is impactful and achieving the change intended. Although the focus is
localized, the long-term goal is to learn from the pilots to replicate the projects in other major
cities. The overarching hope is that the introduction of these innovations reduce the divide in the
Black queer community across the country.
Nevertheless, participants will develop knowledge of how to maximize entrepreneurship
and/or homeownership as effective wealth building opportunities. They will increase assets,
savings, diversify financial portfolios, and sustain their entrepreneurial venture and/or
homeowner status for at least three years. Additionally, participants will be expected to share
their growing expertise with others.
Data Collection Plan
The data collection plan includes a series of pre- and post-assessments that will be
34
administered and analyzed to determine whether and how the knowledge gained helps the
participant achieve financial stability over the course of time. The post-assessments will be
conducted at the following intervals: 12, 24, and 36 months. After analysis of the data that will
be collected, there will be a better understanding of the benefits of technical assistance, ongoing
coaching, and availability of resources. Finally, financial data will be collected to analyze the
percentage of change in income, savings, and funding streams that exist at the aforementioned
intervals. Since a program with the proposed support post-purchase or post-launch has not been
targeted to this community, it would be prudent to have a control group to determine the actual
efficacy of the model.
Communication Plan
The internal and external communication plan is part of being accountable to the
principles that guide this process. Transparency throughout is essential. The marketing campaign
and plan includes an event to share the results of the pilots. An opportunity will be given to
stakeholders as well as participants to discuss their experience being part of the
conceptualization, development, implementation, and/or participation process - what worked,
what did not work, the recommendations moving forward, and did their expectations get
realized.
Social media will be used to raise awareness, seek feedback, and provide updates to
constituents. In addition to the event, the goal is to present the results in a local symposium and
distribute said results to donors and community supporters. One such event could be the
symposium that is hosted on an annual basis by EMPath Economic Mobility Pathways. Again,
the hope is that these prototypes can be formally piloted in Boston and subsequently replicated in
other major cities.
35
Challenges/Limitations
Since there is still an underlying belief that the divide is related to “people not working
hard enough”, these myths have to be dispelled by distribution of existing data. As shared
throughout, the divide did not happen overnight. Systemically, the Black community has been
strategically omitted from legislation that promotes various ways for citizens to survive periods
of economic downturn. There is currently a movement to deny the country’s destructive history
and how it manifests in present-day experiences. Therefore, any initiative, pilot, and/or program
that is developed for a specific part of the community can incite conversations about fairness.
This could, in turn, present a barrier to implementation as it may hinder support from some
stakeholders.
In addition, there may be existing ways in which current mandates (i.e. fair housing
regulations) restrict the ability to move forward with these types of initiatives. In order for this to
work, the value proposition has to establish a clear universal understanding of the need. There
also may be a need to reframe certain components of the proposals. As the country ramps up for
the upcoming presidential election, it is imperative that the general public has an understanding
of how that candidacy can impact federal and state level programming and funding for these
types of efforts.
Conclusion and Implications
The country has a responsibility to accept the truth of its history, enter a process of
reconciliation, and engage in healing from the racist ideology that has been a cornerstone that has
negated Black people’s human rights and ability to cultivate and transmit intergenerational
wealth. Although the Black community may not have access to traditional wealth, the resiliency
that strengthens the bonds within is inspiring. However, there is no denying that the Black queer
36
community may experience increased vulnerabilities. This finding highlights the need for
additional research and presents an opportunity to launch the proposed projects.
Lessons Learned
From the beginning, narrowing down the ideas into concepts that could be
operationalized was a feat. The beauty, strength, and challenge of having an array of
stakeholders is synthesizing the various perspectives, ideas, insights, and concerns into a doable
project. Collaborative problem solving and design thinking requires a level of vulnerability,
honesty, and willingness to be flexible, adaptive, and creative. When embarking on a
community-led and driven project, it is so important to have a clear understanding of how to
respect and honor one another’s humanity and experience, mitigate conflict and opposing views,
and achieve incremental progress. Additionally, it is imperative to create an environment that is
conducive to strengthening concepts by engaging in robust, truthful conversations that appreciate
and value each stakeholder’s contributions.
Implications for Practice and Future Use
Although there are researchers tackling the issues of intersectionality and the racial
wealth divide, there is still so much to learn as the experiences of people who identify as
LGBTQ+ is varied across the spectrum. However, the qualitative data collected locally informed
the proposals presented. The involvement of a diverse set of people provided different
perspectives, ideas, and feedback. As such, this continues to be an iterative process. In talking to
researchers from different institutions, there is a pressing need to better understand the current
scope of the divide to inform future social innovations.
Action Plan
The Gantt chart provides the list of tasks that need to be completed in the next 3 month
37
period and serves as a roadmap for future steps (see Appendix D). In the next few weeks, there
are follow-up meetings that will be scheduled with various stakeholders, including The Boston
Foundation and a researcher from Brandeis University. In addition, the Director of the Boston
Foundation’s Equality Fund has requested for a meeting to be scheduled with the President of
The New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund and the Boston Foundation’s
Equality Fund to discuss establishing a hybrid fund and/or the proposed partnership. Finally,
there is a survey that was recently distributed based on the changes that have been integrated to
the prototypes after the recent design lab that was held. Responses are still being collected and
analyzed.
Final Thoughts
The divide is an equity, social justice, and human rights issue. As highlighted throughout,
there are members of the community who potentially experience more vulnerabilities, which
require innovative approaches that address the unique barriers that may exist. Given this
understanding, the prototypes presented aim to create pathways to wealth building activities that
take into account the Black queer experience. The opportunities to address institutional and
systemic oppression are vast and varied. Ultimately, everyone deserves access to all this country
has to offer. Everyone deserves to be free of the shackles that bind.
38
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44
Appendix A
DSW Capstone
Design Criteria
July 2024
Design Criteria
Categories Criteria Wider Opportunity Space
Must
● Enhance access to wealth building strategies
● Be rooted in design justice principles
● Integrate research findings, including qualitative data from the local community
● Ensure the various stakeholders who are most impacted by systemic and structural
oppression that has informed the divide are included in this process, especially the
Black/Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community
● Identify and invite a wide spectrum of stakeholders
● Integrate different perspectives in meaningful ways
● Elevate and center the experiences of those who are closest to the problem
Could
● Decrease the impacts of the divide
● Result in economic stability
● Increase awareness of how racism, homophobia, transphobia, and stigma influence
and inform public discourse and policy development
● Create equitable access to training, personal and professional development,
entrepreneurial opportunities, homeownership, and/or other wealth building
activities
● Build off existing efforts, ensuring they are in alignment with design justice
principles
● Encourage more research on how intersecting identifies influences how someone
may experience the divide
● Conduct a more thorough analysis of what strategies are most effective
Should
● Provide different ways to engage and inform
● Be part of a constellation of strategies to reduce the divide, including efforts to
address systemic and structural issues
● Inform future research studies as the impact of intersecting identities has not been
thoroughly examined as a result of the limitations of existing data sets
● Elevate and center the insights of stakeholders who are closest to the problem
● Collaborate with agencies piloting initiatives and programs to assess the efficacy of
existing efforts
● Create space to strategize with thought partners from academia, think tanks, local
organizations, etc. in hopes of influencing future research, projects, and initiatives
Won’t
● Minimize the profound impact of racism, homophobia, transphobia, and stigma
● Neglect the vulnerability experienced by the Black queer community
● Define the source of the problem solely as individual actions or inactions taken
● Assume stakeholders have a shared understanding of why the divide exists and
what sustains it
● Reduce awareness about the problem and why it persists
● Minimize how the socio-political infrastructure of this country reinforces
inequitable access, which results in an inability to accumulate and transmit
intergenerational wealth
● Negate differing perspectives about the problem and solution landscape
45
Appendix B
Activities Participation Objectives
THE BLACK QUEER PHILANTHROPY PROJECT
GOAL OUTPUTS
The goal of the Black Queer
Philanthropy Project is to
provide coaching, training, and
financial support for Black queer
entrepreneurs seeking seed
funding to launch their respective
initiative, innovation, and/or
entrepreneur venture.
The objectives are as follows: 1.
the participant will increase their
knowledge about launching a
successful initiative, innovation,
and/or entrepreneurial venture; 2.
the participant will increase their
ability to financially sustain their
initiative, innovation, and/or
entrepreneurial venture for at
least 3 years; and 3. the
participant will increase their
income, savings, and diversify
funding streams.
INPUTS
To make this a successful
venture, key stakeholders
have been brought together
to discuss the project, its
goals, and the roadmap
leading to its launch. An
essential component is
initiating a
communication campaign
that highlights the goal,
plan, and project pilot.
Prior to its launch, there has been
and will continue to be additional
data gathering opportunities i.e.
interviews, surveys, etc. to ensure
that the core elements of the
project are consistent with the
needs of the community. A design
lab was convened with
stakeholders who have a vested
interest in wealth building
opportunities. The data gathered
has informed further development
of the project. The subsequent
goal is to fine tune objectives and
strategize on how to leverage
existing resources effectively. A
roadmap will be developed that
provides concrete guidance of the
steps needed for a successful
launch. The communication
campaign will raise awareness
about the project, include a fun
and creative launch event that
highlights the project, and a
celebration that culminates and
celebrates the accomplishments
made along the way. It will
include a social media campaign,
appearances on BNN, etc.
Participation of key stakeholders
is essential. The stakeholders that
have been invited thus far
include, but are not limited to, the
following: community members,
community leaders, agencies,
coalitions, content experts (racial
equity scholars, economists, and
financial leaders), and community
development corporations.
OUTCOMES - IMPACT
The unit of measurement that
will be used to determine success
is the percentage of increase
within the following categories:
knowledge gained from the
educational seminars and
coaching opportunities. The other
unit of measurement will be the
financial viability of the
initiative, innovation, and/or
entrepreneurial venture at 12, 24,
and 36 month intervals. The final
unit of measurement is the
percentage of increase in the
following categories: income,
savings, and/or diversification of
funding streams. It is important
to note that baseline assessments
will be conducted at the
beginning of their participation.
Activities Participation Objectives
THE BLACK RAINBOW HOUSING FUND
GOAL OUTPUTS
The goal of the Black Rainbow
Housing Fund is to create
meaningful access to
homeownership opportunities by
partnering with existing agencies
that provide a comprehensive
homeownership certification
program, legal guidance and
support, substantial down
payment assistance, and
technical assistance pre- and postpurchase to Black queer
households. Additional support
and guidance will be given to
participants who want to
establish a housing cooperative
and/or participate in a
community land trust.
The objectives are follows: 1. the
participant will increase their
knowledge about financial
literacy, legal implications of
homeownership, and
homeownership do’s and don’ts;
2. the participant will increase
their ability to purchase a home
and sustain their homeowner
status for at least 3 years; and 3.
the participant will increase their
financial assets and ability to save
and invest.
INPUTS
To make this a viable
venture, a diverse group of
stakeholders lent their
expertise when discussing
the project, its goals, and
the steps that need to be
taken to pilot the fund. An
essential component is
initiating a
communication campaign
that highlights the goal,
plan, and launch of the
Black Rainbow Housing
Fund. The fund relies on
establishing partnerships
with agencies and
community leaders as the
key to success is bridging
existing resources
effectively.
Prior to its launch, several data
gathering opportunities i.e.
interviews, surveys, etc. were
enacted to ensure that the core
elements of the fund are
consistent with the needs of the
community. These data collection
efforts will continue. A design lab
was convened and included
stakeholders who have a vested
interest in launching this fund. As
highlighted in the design criteria,
it is important to center the
individuals most impacted by the
divide. The data gathered
continues to inform further
development of the fund, fine
tune objectives, and strategize on
how to leverage existing
resources effectively. A roadmap
will be develop that provides
concrete guidance for a
successful launch of the fund.
The communication campaign
will raise awareness about the
Black Rainbow Housing Fund,
how to access the program, and
how stakeholders can get
involved in supporting its
success.
Participation of key stakeholders
is essential. The stakeholders that
have been invited thus far
include, but are not limited to, the
following: community members,
community leaders, agencies,
coalitions, content experts (racial
equity scholars, economists, and
financial leaders), and community
development corporations.
OUTCOMES - IMPACT
The unit of measurement that
will be used to determine success
is the percentage of increase
within the following categories:
knowledge gained from the
educational seminar. The other
unit of measurement that will be
used is the percentage of people
who graduate from the program
and actually purchase a home
within 12 months of receiving the
first-time homebuyer certificate.
The final unit of measurement is
the percentage of increase within
the following categories: assets,
savings, and investments. It is
important to note that baseline
assessments will be conducted at
the beginning of their
participation.
Activities Participation Objectives
The proposals were informed by a
comprehensive data collection
process. Several data gathering
opportunities i.e. interviews,
surveys, etc. were enacted to
ensure that the core elements of
the fund and project are
consistent with the needs of the
community. These data collection
efforts will continue. A design lab
was convened and included
stakeholders who have a vested
interest in launching the fund and
project. Both proposals are reliant
on bridging existing resources
together to offer a unique
opportunity that focuses on
providing post-purchase and postlaunch technical assistance,
support, guidance, and access to
resources that are relevant and
LGBTQ friendly. As highlighted
in the design criteria, it is
important to center the
individuals most impacted by the
divide. A roadmap will be
develop that provides concrete
guidance for a successful launch
of both proposals.
Participation of stakeholders is
essential. The stakeholders that
have been invited thus far
include, but are not limited to, the
following: community members,
community leaders, agencies,
coalitions, content experts (racial
equity scholars, economists, and
financial leaders), and community
development corporations. These
stakeholders will be invited to be
part of the Advisory Board that
will emerge from the work of the
BRP.
OUTCOMES - IMPACT
The units of measurement that
will be used to determine success
are the following: the successful
creation of at least three
formalized partnerships, the
amount of money that is
fundraised within the first three
years of the BRP's inception, and
the number of participants who
are able to successfully complete
the certification process for the
fund or the project, sustain their
home or entrepreneurial venture
for at least three years, and
increase their assets, savings, and
diversification of investments.
THE BLACK RAINBOW PARTNERSHIP
GOAL INPUTS OUTPUTS
The goal of the Black Rainbow
Partnership (BRP) is to establish
formalized partnerships with
existing organizations to raise
awareness of the divide, develop
a funding stream for The Black
Queer Philanthropy Project and
the The Black Rainbow Housing
Fund, and initiate the marketing
campaign to launch these pilots.
The BRP will serve as an
Advisory Board.
A diverse group of
stakeholders lent their
expertise when discussing
the two projects, goals, and
steps that need to be taken
to implement them. The
BRP will initiate the
marketing and the
communication campaign
that highlights the goal,
plan, and launch of both
programs.
The objectives are follows: 1. the
BRP will formalize partnerships
with at least three organizations
that have the collective skills,
expertise, and experience to
launch successful programs; 2.
the BRP will launch a successful
marketing and communications
campaign to raise awareness and
cultivate a donor base; and 3. the
BRP will fundraise enough
money to pilot the fund and
prototype.
46
Appendix C
1
DSW Capstone
The Black Rainbow Partnership
The Budget Narrative
July 2024
MORISHANTI CONSULTING
The Black Rainbow Partnership
Budget Narrative - 9 Month Start-up Budget
A. Salary – Total: $67,500.00
a. The Black Rainbow Partnership Director will be hired to bridge existing resources by
establishing partnerships with different organizations, identifying and welcoming leaders
with lived experience to be mentors, offering training regarding the aspects that are new,
and helping lead a marketing campaign to generate financial support. The Director will
work closely with the consultant to develop a short and long-term fundraising plan. The
Director is expected to be adept in administration and operations, program development,
and financial management. Although a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Management is
preferred, a bachelor’s degree will suffice if the individual has at least 3 to 5 years of
relevant experience. The director’s 9 month prorated salary is $67,500.00.
B. Fringe Benefits – Total: $0
a. This position will be an independent contractor. As such, benefits will not be provided.
C. Consultant - Total: $20,000.00
a. The partnership will hire a resource development consultant that will inform the
development of the “Closing the Racial Wealth Divide in Queer Communities - One
Donation at a Time” campaign and the infrastructure for short- and long-term fundraising.
D. The Capital Campaign Expenses - Total: $10,465.00
a. Rent and Utilities
i. A designated space will be needed for the duration of the start-up period. However,
the space used will be donated by one of the identified partners.
b. Phone
i. To outreach to potential donors, the Director will need access to a phone service.
The cost will be spread across 9 months. The rate will be $60.00 a month, which
totals $540.00 for the 9 month period ($100.00 x 9 = $900.00).
c. Supplies/Paper
i. Minimal office supplies are needed, including paper and other materials. The
monthly cost is $25.00 per month, which totals $225.00 for the 9 month period
($25.00 x 9 = $225.00).
d. Equipment (Computer/Printer) Purchases
i. The Director has a designated computer that they use for their consultant business.
The expectation is that they use this available equipment to conduct research,
develop materials, and maintain internal and external social media communications.
2
DSW Capstone
The Black Rainbow Partnership
The Budget Narrative
July 2024
e. Internet
i. High-speed internet is essential. The contract will provide a stipend to ensure the
Director has optimal internet access. The stipend that will be offered is $40.00 per
month, which totals $360.00 for the 9 month period ($40.00 x 9 = $360.00).
f. Flyers/Brochures
i. During the first two to three months, the Director in collaboration with the
consultant and identified partners will develop materials, including flyers,
brochures, programs, etc. The cost is $125.00 for 5 months ($125.00 x 5 = $625)
and $500.00 for the month or so prior to the last event, which totals $1,125.00
($625.00 + $500.00 = $1,125.00). The partners are expected to help with
distribution costs and to circulate written materials on social media.
g. Paraphernalia
i. Small gifts will be given at both events. The total cost will be $1,750.00, $500.00
for the launch event and $1,250 for the celebration event.
h. Radio Ads
i. From month 5 to 9, the partnership will tap into existing resources and place radio
ads on public access radio to advertise the “Closing the Racial Wealth Divide in
Queer Communities - One Donation at a Time” campaign. One such relationship is
with the Boston Neighborhood Network (BNN).
i. Fundraising Platform
i. The cost of the crowdsourcing platform that will be used is $1,715.00 and it will be
paid in $285.00 increments starting on the 4th month of the campaign. The last
payment will be $290.00.
j. Events
i. Food & Beverage
1. Event 1: Pathways to Reducing the Wealth Divide in Black Queer
Communities
a. The total cost is $750.00.
2. Event 2: Celebrating Wealth Building Opportunities in Black Queer
Communities
a. The total cost is $3,000.00.
ii. Decorations
1. Event 1: Pathways to Reducing the Wealth Divide in Black Queer
Communities
a. The total cost is $150.00.
2. Event 2: Celebrating Wealth Building Opportunities in Black Queer
Communities
a. The total cost is $500.00.
3
DSW Capstone
The Black Rainbow Partnership
The Budget Narrative
July 2024
iii. Supplies
1. Event 1: Pathways to Reducing the Wealth Divide in Black Queer
Communities
a. The total cost is $100.00.
2. Event 2: Celebrating Wealth Building Opportunities in Black Queer
Communities
a. The total cost is $250.00.
E. Black Rainbow Partnership Expenses
a. Program Supplies and Expenses
i. The partnership will begin offering the training program, technical assistance, and
support to participants once the programmatic infrastructure is established. There
are two goals: 1. Generate enough funding for the Black Rainbow Housing Fund to
provide at least $25,000 to $40,000 in down payment assistance to at least one to
two households and 2. Generate enough funding for the Black Queer Philanthropy
Project to provide at least $10,000 to $20,000 in seed funding to at least two to six
participants.
Line Item Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 Month 7 Month 8 Month 9 9 Month Total
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN EXPENSES
Office
Phone $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 60.00 $ 540.00
Supplies/Paper $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 25.00 $ 225.00
Internet $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 40.00 $ 360.00
Printing/Photocopying
Flyers/Brochures $ - $ - $ - $ 125.00 $ 125.00 $ 125.00 $ 500.00 $ 125.00 $ 125.00 $ 1,125.00
Paraphernalia (buttons, stickers, signs, etc.) $ - $ 500.00 $ 1,250.00 $ 1,750.00
Media & Communication
Fundraising Platform $ - $ - $ - $ 285.00 $ 285.00 $ 285.00 $ 285.00 $ 285.00 $ 290.00 $ 1,715.00
Events
Food & Beverage $ - $ - $ - $ 750.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 3,000.00 $ 3,750.00
Decorations $ - $ - $ - $ 150.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 500.00 $ 650.00
Supplies $ - $ - $ - $ 100.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 250.00 $ 350.00
Personnel
Consultant $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00 $ 20,000.00
BRP EXPENSES
Salaries $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 67,500.00
Program Supplies and Expenses $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 84,535.00 $ 84,535.00
TOTAL EXPENSES $ 7,625.00 $ 10,125.00 $ 10,125.00 $ 12,035.00 $ 10,535.00 $ 10,535.00 $ 12,160.00 $ 10,535.00 $ 98,825.00 $ 182,500.00
REVENUE
Fundraising
Donors (one-time, recurring, tribute gifts) $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000.00 $ 25,000.00
Crowdfunding/Events $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00
Text-to-Give $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 500.00 $ 500.00 $ 500.00 $ 500.00 $ 500.00 $ 2,500.00
Campaign $ - $ - $ - $ 20,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 45,000.00
Fundraising Total $ - $ - $ - $ 20,000.00 $ 30,500.00 $ 5,500.00 $ 5,500.00 $ 5,500.00 $ 55,500.00 $ 122,500.00
Other Revenue
Grants $ - $ - $ - $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 60,000.00
TOTAL REVENUE $ - $ - $ - $ 30,000.00 $ 40,500.00 $ 15,500.00 $ 15,500.00 $ 15,500.00 $ 65,500.00 $ 182,500.00
MORISHANTI CONSULTING
9 Monthly Start-up Budget
Fiscal Year 2025
The Black Rainbow Partnership (BRP)
ITEM AMOUNT
Revenue
Rental Income $ -
Development Fees $ -
Grants (Operations) $ 60,000.00
Program and Contract Revenues $ -
Fundraising $ 122,500.00
Total Revenue $ 182,500.00
Expenses
BRP Expenses
Wages/Salary $ 67,500.00
Program Supplies and Expenses $ 84,535.00
Total BRP Expenses $ 152,035.00
Capital Campaign Expenses
Office Expenses $ 1,125.00
Printing/Photocopying $ 2,875.00
Media & Communication $ 1,715.00
Events $ 4,750.00
Consultant $ 20,000.00
Total Capital Campaign Expenses $ 30,465.00
Total Expenses $ 182,500.00
SURPLUS/DEFICIT $ -
Morishanti Consulting
Start-up Budget - 9 Months
Fiscal Year 2025
The Black Rainbow Partnership (BRP)
47
Appendix D
Tasks Start Date End Date Status Resource Needs Barriers/Challenges
Meet with the Boston Foundation's Director of the Equity Fund 6/26/2024 6/26/2024 Completed Interview Questions Availability of identified persons
Meet with the Institute for Economic and Racial Equity's Senior Researcher II for additional feedback 6/24/2024 7/5/2024 Completed Interview Questions Availability of identified persons
Meet with the Senior Researcher for the Institute for Economic Equity at the Federal Reserve Bank of
St. Louis and her Research Assistant from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors 6/24/2024 7/15/2024 Completed Interview Questions Availability of identified persons
Meet the Director of the Greater Boston Partnership to Close the Racial Wealth Gap at The Boston
Foundation 7/26/2024 7/26/2024 Completed Review the proposal N/A
Convene the Capstone Design Committee for the final review 6/24/2024 7/10/2024 Completed Materials - agenda, napkin pitch, etc. Availability of identified persons
Host a design lab to review the revised prototype 7/10/2024 7/10/2024 Completed Materials - napkin pitch, activities, etc. Availability of identified persons
Distribute the survey and collect responses regarding the recommended revisions 7/10/2024 8/5/2024 In process Time/Consult with colleagues, mentors, and peers N/A
Evaluate data collected and use it to make additional changes to the designs 7/12/2024 8/16/2024 In process Time N/A
Revise the proposal and designs 07/19/24 7/28/2024 Completed Time N/A
Meet with the Boston Foundation's Director of the Equity Fund and the the President of the New
Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund 8/1/2024 8/16/2024 In process Time and Materials - napkin pitch, activities, etc. Availability of identified persons
Meet with the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Madison Park Development Corporation (MPDC) 8/1/2024 8/16/2024 Not started Time and Materials - napkin pitch, activities, etc. Availability of identified persons
Consult with the Service Core of Retired Executives (SCORE) to develop a formal business plan for the
Black Rainbow Partnership 8/1/2024 9/3/2024 Not started Time and Materials Availability of identified persons
Meet with the Executive Vice President at Collier for guidance and support in identifying additional
key partners 8/1/2024 9/3/2024 Time and Materials Availability of identified persons
Consult with an attorney to review the options for the Partnership i.e. 501 (c)(3) 8/1/2024 9/3/2024 Time and Materials Availability of identified persons
The Black Queer Philanthropy Project/The Black Rainbow Housing Fund
48
Appendix E
DSW Capstone
Design Lab - Facilitator’s Agenda
July 2024
DESIGN LAB - Reducing the Racial Wealth Divide in Queer Communities
Agenda Item Timeframe
Introductions
● Name
● Affiliation
● Why is reducing the racial wealth divide important to you?
10 minutes
Review the purpose of the design lab
● Provide the context
○ The racial wealth divide
● The napkin pitches
○ The Black Rainbow Housing Fund Prototype
○ The Black Queer Philanthropy Project Prototype
15 minutes
Group Guidelines
● Enter the space with transparency
● Engage in honest, open communication
● Agree to disagree with the caveat that you are open to explore other
ways of thinking
● Be self-aware and own your own values, beliefs, and ways of being
● Be open to the possibility that you do not know it all
● Listen actively i.e. one mic, be fully present in the moment
● Trust the intent, acknowledge the impact
● Review, reflect, and revise
● Create space to step back and explore
● Exercise a “gut” check
5 minutes
Jamboard Exercise
● Type the benefits and challenges to implementing the following concepts
on the post-it notes in the Google Jamboard:
○ The Black Rainbow Housing Fund
○ The Black Queer Philanthropy Fund
10 minutes
Discussion
● What additional features would help make The Black Rainbow Housing
Fund a viable pilot?
● What additional features would help make The Black Queer Philanthropy
Project a viable pilot?
● What needs to be in place to help with the marketing and implementation
of either prototype?
● What additional insights are needed to move forward with the concepts
presented?
30 minutes
Conclusion
● Final Thoughts
● Questions & Answers
15 minutes
Empowerment
through education
Building Economic Resilience to Address the
Racial Wealth Divide in Queer Communities
Lisa Morishanti, MSW, LICSW
Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work
University of Southern California
DSW Capstone Defense
Professor Michael G. Rank, PhD, MA
August 1, 2024
The design committee
Courtney Brunson, Esq.
Director of the Greater Boston Partnership to Close the Racial Wealth Gap, The Boston Foundation
Dieng Cameron, MNPL
Alumni + Family Relations Officer, Rhode Island School of Design
Jennifer Lowe, Ph.D.
Vice President of Shared Learning and Member Networks, EMPath - Economic Mobility Pathways
Michael G. Rank, Ph.D.
Associate Teaching Professor, USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work
Pamela Waterman, MPH
Director of the MAAH Stone Book Award and Senior Consultant, The Stone Foundation
the journey
THE Grand CHALLENGES
ELIMINATING RACISM
REDUCE EXTREME
INCOME INEQUALITY
(Collins et al., 2019; NASW, 2021)
(Shapiro et al., 2019)
Living paycheck to paycheck…
what happens in an emergency?
What is the
Racial Wealth Divide?
(Shapiro et al., 2019; Weller & Roberts, 2021)
The Divide
Credit Lines
Education
Emergency Savings
Family Support
Healthcare Homeownership
Housing
Inheritance
Lending
Retirement
(Weller & Roberts, 2021).
The racial wealth divide is not only a burden
on the Black community, but a burden on
everyone. The divide significantly impacts the
country’s economy (Noel et al., 2019).
When taking into account liquid assets (not
including cash), Black households have two
cents for every dollar a white household has at
their disposal (Muñoz, 2015).
The data collection PROCESS
SEVERAL THEMES
EMERGED
RICH SOURCE OF
LOCAL DATA
(Netflix, 2020; Reich, 2021)
The THEMES
Impact of estrangement and lack of acceptance
Intersecting identities = increased vulnerabilities
Racism, homophobia, and transphobia in academia, housing, and the workplace
The issue of inheritance
Truth, reconciliation, and healing
THE Survey Results
EXISTING Solutions
• Children savings accounts
• Down payment assistance
• Guaranteed income
• Postal banking
• Profit sharing
The Racial
Wealth Divide
& the LGBTQ Community
A first-time buyer homeownership certificate
program
Down payment assistance
Assistance identifying and securing legal
counsel
Ongoing technical assistance, resources, and
support post-purchase for up to two years
THE Black Rainbow Housing Fund
Program Design
Establish community-based partnerships
Create a special down payment assistance fund
Educate local financial institutions
Identify vendors that are queer and/or queer friendly
Provide ongoing technical assistance and support
THE Black Rainbow Housing Fund
Community-based Approach
Participants will increase their knowledge about
financial literacy, legal and financial implications
of homeownership, and how build equity
effectively.
Participants will sustain their homeowner status
for at least 3 years.
Participants will increase their financial assets
and ability to save and invest.
THE Black Rainbow Housing Fund
Objectives
Four-week training intensive
• Topics: innovation, entrepreneurship,
leadership and team development, and
sustainability and fundraising
Seed funding
Technical assistance
• Coaching
• Resources
• Tools
THE black queer philanthropy project
Program Design
Establish community-based partnerships to create access to
existing entrepreneurial training programs
Create a special fund with local philanthropists
Educate local financial institutions about the divide, the impacts to
the Black queer community, and ways to reduce the divide
Identify community leaders and experts that are willing to assume
the role of professional coach and/or mentor
Provide ongoing technical assistance and support
THE black queer philanthropy project
Community-based Approach
THE black queer philanthropy project
Objectives
Participants will increase knowledge about
launching a successful initiative, innovation,
and/or small business.
Participants will gain the ability to financially
sustain their initiative, innovation, and/or
small business.
Participants will increase their income,
savings, and diversify their income streams.
Pre – participation
• Establish a baseline
Post - post participation
• Evaluate efficacy
• Conducted at 12, 24, and 36 month intervals
THE evaluation plan
The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation,
and Sustainment (EPIS) Framework
Human Centered Design
Design Justice Principles
THE implementation plan
Communication Plan
- Internal and external communications
- Use of social media
The “Closing the Racial Wealth Divide in Queer Communities
- One Donation at a Time” Fundraising Campaign
- The “Pathways to Reducing the Wealth Divide in Black Queer
Communities” Event
- The “Celebrating Wealth Building Opportunities in Black Queer
Communities” Event
THE capital campaign
- Legacy Giving
- Partnerships
- Resource Development Plan
- Monthly sustainer program
- Major donor cultivation
THE Funding PLan
THE testing PHASE
Challenges
Public discourse about equity, fairness, and inclusion
Differing perspectives about what is holding the divide in place
The centralization of anti-blackness
The political climate
CONCLUSION
Let’s build economic
resilience to address the
racial wealth divide in
queer communities!
Q & a
References
Asante-Muhammad, D., Collins, C., & Ocampo, O. (2020). White supremacy is the pre-existing condition: Eight solutions to ensure economic
recovery reduces the racial wealth divide. Institute for Policy Studies and National Community Reinvestment Coalition. Retrieved
April 5, 2023, from https://ips-dc.org/white-supremacy-preexisting-condition-eight-solutions-economic- recovery-racial-wealth-divide/
Bhutta, N., Chang, A. C., Dettling, L. J., & Hsu, J. W. (2020). Disparities in Wealth by Race and Ethnicity in the 2019 Survey of
Consumer Finances. FEDS Notes, 2020(2797). https://doi.org/10.17016/2380-7172.2797
Brown, T. (2012). The intersection and accumulation of racial and gender inequality: Black
women's wealth trajectories. The Review of Black Political Economy, 39(2), 239-258. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12114-011-9100-8
Brown, D. A. (2021). The whiteness of wealth: How the tax system impoverishes Black
Americans - and how we can fix it. Crown.
Collins, C., Asante-Mohammad, D., Hoxie, J., & Terry, S. (2019). Dreams deferred:
How enriching the 1% widens the racial wealth divide. Institute for Policy Studies. Retrieved April 12, 2023, from
https://dc.org/racial-wealth-divide-2019/
Kendi, I. X. (2016). Stamped from the beginning : The definitive history of racist ideas in
America. Nation Books.
Kent, A. & Scott, S. (2022). United States: New analysis finds LGBTQ+ households trail in
income and wealth. Asia News Monitor
Kijakazi, K. (2016). Closing the racial wealth gap: Establishing and sustaining an initiative. Race and Social Problems, 8(1), 136- 145.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12552-016-9165-x
References
Lui, M. (2006). The color of wealth : The story behind the U.S. racial wealth divide. New Press.
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). NASW code of ethics. Retrieved April 2, 2023, from
https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English
Netflix. (2020, April 17). Explained | racial wealth gap | FULL EPISODE | Netflix [Video].
YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mqrhn8khGLM
Reich, R. (2021, November 3). How wealth inequality spiraled out of control [Video]. YouTube.
Retrieved April 15, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOI8RuhW7q0&t=218s
Rosentel, K., VandeVusse, A., & Hill, B. J. (2020). Racial and socioeconomic inequity in the
spatial distribution of LGBTQ human services: An exploratory analysis of LGBTQ services in Chicago. Sexuality Research & Social
Policy, 17(1), 87-103. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-019-0374-0
Rothstein, R. (2017). The color of law: A forgotten history of how our government segregated America. Liveright Publishing Corporation, a
division of W.W. Norton & Company.
Shapiro, T., Santos, J., Stewart, S., Byrd-Chichester, J., Montag, C., Austin, A., Froome, J., & Searcy, W. (2019). The black-white
racial wealth gap. Brandeis University and the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. Retrieved April 12, 2023, from
https://tminstituteldf.org/publications/the-black-white-racial-wealth-gap/
Toesland, F. (2021). The LGBTQ+ generational wealth gap is a serious issue. This is why.
Between the Lines, 2934(1181), 22.
Whitfield, D. L., Walls, N. E., Langenderfer-Magruder, L., & Clark, B. (2014). Queer is the new
black? not so much: Racial disparities in anti-LGBTQ discrimination. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services, 26(4), 426-440.
h //d i /10 1080/10538720 2014 955556
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Morishanti, Lisa Marie
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Core Title
Empowerment through education: building economic resilience to address the racial wealth divide in queer communities
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Social Work
Degree Conferral Date
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Publication Date
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Tags
economic disparity
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