Supporting Affordable Housing for Everyone

Depending on your political stance, this day after the elections may have you feeling especially in- or out-of-sync with the rest of America. As someone who believes in affordable housing and improving conditions for the poor, I often feel that my values are at odds with most people. I was surprised then to read about the results of a recent Zogby poll about affordable housing. In this poll, commissioned by the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, more than two thirds of respondents (69%) said the issue of providing affordable housing in their community, both ownership and rental and including housing for low-income families, is important. A third overall (33%) said providing such affordable housing is very important. While most Americans believe affordable housing should be available to everyone, when it comes to the historical goal of a decent home and suitable living environment for every American family, two thirds (67%) say the nation is on the wrong track, while 16% say we are on the right track and 17% are not sure.  

This poll has the cynic in me wondering why advancing the issue of affordable housing is so difficult when the majority of Americans believe it is important. The optimist in me sees great hope and opportunity. Next Monday, I will be joining hundreds of community members in Minnesota at the Homes for All 2010 conference to build a community platform to affirm the belief that all Minnesotans deserve a safe, affordable place to call home. I'll attend the conference knowing that nearly 70% of Americans feel the same way that I do about affordable housing.