Amanda Strong
Investment | Cambridge, Massachusetts | Female | 20+ Years of Experience
At this point it is not my problem to solve.
I assume you are referring to how I feel about the tragic, disgusting events that have happened recently. Let me call out the names so we can be clear that this is what we are talking about. 1. George Floyd murdered by suffocation by a Minneapolis police officer on videotape. 2. Ahmaud Arbery murdered by terrorists acting like they were self-policing in Atlanta. 3. EMT Breonna Taylor murdered in her bed by plainclothes policemen in Louisville. 4. Christian Cooper’s life endangered by a lying white woman who called 911, stating that “an African American man was threatening her and her dog” when he was waiting for her to put the dog back on the leash in Central Park.
These events remind us of the white privilege that exists in the United States, with undeniable clarity. How am I feeling? Sick, angry and tired. I can tell you that at this point it is not my problem to solve. I look forward to my white colleagues owning the situation we find ourselves in and continuing to hear responses from them about how they feel and what they intend to do. I also think it’s important to make them aware of the impact these events have had on their black colleagues. This is a journey. We also need dialogues, listening and empathy. I’ve been part of some of these dialogues and they are helpful. Finally, although action makes everyone feel good, a big part of this experience is to stop, listen and learn, then act on what you feel passionately about. I suggest some tools to become more informed below.
Book: How To Be An Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi | Aug. 13, 2019
Movie: I Am Not Your Negro, written by James Baldwin and made into a movie in 2016
Article: 75 Things White People can do for Racial Justice, written by Corinne Shutack | Aug. 13, 2017
Article: White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack, written by Peggy McIntosh | 1988
Peebles Corp. founder and CEO Don Peebles
Investment and Development | Washington, D.C. | Male | 36 Years of Experience
The country is at a crossroads.
I think the country is at a crossroads. It’s at a place now that will be looked upon retrospectively as a historic transformation of the nation. When future generations look back at this time, they will see a great transformation in the country.
Innovative Housing CEO Rochelle Mills
Development | Los Angeles | Female | 25+ Years of Experience
I haven't slept well in weeks.
I feel exasperated by the recurrence and cover-up of these horrific acts that rebooted the conversation.
I feel angered that systems and institutions that should protect all protect their own.
I feel encouraged that citizens around the world are standing in solidarity.
I feel confused that so many believe that these are isolated events.
I feel annoyed that this collective outrage will pass as quickly as it came.
I feel exhausted by the numerous (and futile) conversations that have taken place during my lifetime.
I feel overwhelmed by the sense of powerlessness I have to affect meaningful, systemic change.
I feel frustrated that some prioritize merchandise lost over lives lost.
I feel manipulated by media and politicians who use these incidents for headlines, votes and photo ops.
I feel jaded and convinced that discussions will not result in solutions.
I feel sad that I can’t assure my daughter that everything will be OK.
I feel hopeful that social media is exposing uncomfortable truths and demanding action in ways that invalidate claims of ignorance. (I believe good will come. It has to, right?)
I feel tired because I haven’t slept well in weeks.
Investment | Chicago | Female | 40+ Years of Experience
Anger, sadness, determination and resolve.
Brokerage | London | Female | 4 Years of Experience
This is the first time I have felt somewhat comfortable to have an open conversation.
I am torn between two minds. On one hand, I am overwhelmed with hope from the traction that the Black Lives Matter movement has had, which has brought support from all sections of society, and more importantly crucial conversations to the forefront, no doubt bringing some change. On the other hand, I am quietly pessimistic as to whether the support will continue when this is no longer trending. I say that because the horrific murder of George Floyd was not my tipping point. For years, I have seen many videos of excessive violence against black people by police, bringing painful reminders that systemic racism not only exists in the shadows of society, subtly denying opportunities white people have taken for granted, but also brutal and brazen racism exists in the streets in plain sight. However, this is the first time I have felt somewhat comfortable to have an open conversation about it at work and with my non-black friends.
Retail | New York | Male | 15 Years of Experience
I can only be cautiously optimistic.
I feel this is an opportunity for change, but based on how the industry has provided access and career advancement and opportunities in the past, I can only be cautiously optimistic.
Ackerman & Co. Senior Vice President Steve Langford
Investment Sales Brokerage | Atlanta | Male | 12 Years of Experience
An issue that has festered for so long.
A mix of emotions. For starters, a profound sadness at the hurt and frustration currently experienced by the country as a whole. But also, a sense of encouragement that an issue that has festered for so long, and is a very real problem in the daily lives of African Americans, is seemingly and finally being understood by many in this country with a different skin complexion. It is unfortunate that it took witnessing the public murder of an unarmed and handcuffed African American to reveal this reality, but here we are.
Project Destined founder Cedric Bobo
Training | Washington, D.C. | Male | 15 Years of Experience
Reflective and inspired.
Reflective and inspired. We are in an incredible period where CRE leaders are acknowledging, listening, learning and reflecting. The words are there; l am inspired we will collectively act and lead the transition from words to action.
BFW Construction President and CEO Blane Soddart
Construction | Philadelphia | Male | 25+ Years of Experience
Philly commercial real estate is absolutely segregated.
Let's talk about commercial real estate. Philly commercial real estate is absolutely segregated. You go to a Bisnow event in Washington and you have hundreds of attendees and 50% or more are people of color. Travel 120 miles north to Philadelphia and at a similar Bisnow event with 300 attendees and only five to 10 attendees (3%) are black or people of color. Philadelphia is completely segregated as it relates to economic inclusion. It is racialized; even the black business owners are rare in the mainstream. Philadelphia is 55% minority yet only 2.5% of the gross receipts tax comes from black/Latino businesses. It’s hard to find commercial brokers that are black. I can only think of one or two.
Development | London | Male | 6 Years of Experience
I feel begrudgingly hopeful.
I feel begrudgingly hopeful. Hope that the outpouring of support on social media and in protest around the country might be the start of a real change. At the same time, that hope is tempered by frustration that it’s taken this long to openly acknowledge the issue. We live in a society where we (myself included) are uncomfortable to openly discuss the obvious privileges that are afforded to some based on historic and systematic inequalities. The issue is so intrinsic to me that the fraught conversation which we are having now feels premature to the point of being antagonising.
Dominus Commercial Vice President Aaliyah Haqq
Brokerage | Dallas-Fort Worth | Female | 2 Years of Experience
I am disturbed.
I have mixed emotions ranging from sadness to hope. I am disturbed to know that globally, we witnessed something traumatic, a murder. To think many people have been able to witness such a tragedy and rationalize “why” in a way that turns the victim into a perpetrator of his own murder is horribly enlightening. My hope helps me to believe the long-awaited, much-needed change will come.
Finance | Dallas | Male | 25 Years of Experience
I have lived with this fear over 50 years and it’s not going away.
I am filled with emotions. I have lived with a fear for the safety of my children in a country where in many cases their lives are not valued by many of our fellow American citizens and they are 2.5 times more likely to be killed because they are African American. I am optimistically encouraged by the peaceful protests that are going on now, but I have lived with this fear over 50 years, and it’s not going away until the hearts and minds of those who promote the systematic racism change.
T. Dallas Smith & Co. advisor Detra Reid
Office Brokerage | Atlanta | Female | 12 Years of Experience
I feel a change is coming.
In this moment, I’m actually having mixed emotions. On a positive note, I feel a change is coming. It may not be overnight, but at least the elephant in the room is finally being addressed. I’ve had several colleagues check in with me partially to see how I am feeling, but mainly out of their own concerns. With all of the media coverage, my white friends who are parents are wanting to know how to best explain to their children the reasoning behind the protests. The children are curious, they are questioning their parents, and they want answers. They’re asking tough questions such as, “why don’t they or their parents have black friends?” As a result, I see some of my white colleagues intentionally wanting to find ways to deepen the relationship we share.
On the other hand, I’m sad that we are still addressing this issue in 2020. And although conversations regarding discrimination and racism towards black people are starting to be discussed, I still find it to be a very uncomfortable conversation to have, although I feel the same pain and anger as the rest of the black community.
Roosevelt University, Marshall Bennett Institute of Real Estate Executive Director Collete English Dixon
Investment Management | Chicago | Female | 30+ Years of Experience
Being black always has an impact on whatever you do.
Right now, I’m feeling a mixture of anger, frustration, hope and just exhaustion. The most recent events evidencing the lack of respect for the lives of black people are just a continuation of what has gone on in the U.S. for far too long. Watching the murder of two unarmed black men (George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery) was just too much on top of knowing that black Americans are four times more likely to die from COVID-19. I have lived long enough to be frustrated by the lack of progress against the issues caused by racism that continue to plague the black community. No matter who or where you are in this country — being black always has an impact on whatever you do. I am tired of the talk and lack of commitment to create sustained change. I am hopeful because of the engagement we have seen by so many non-black people and so many young people protesting and calling out the injustice, inequalities and just plain racism that has so negatively impacted the black community. I just hope that this time is truly different.
Property Management | Los Angeles | Female | 25+ Years of Experience
It angers me that it has to be a topic of discussion.
Although I feel strongly about inclusion and diversity, it angers me that it has to be a topic of discussion, protesting and rioting. It should not be necessary for companies and organizations to create policies for something that should not be a factor in any decision-making. We are all part of the same species and should be treated as such.
Project REAP Board of Directors Chair Lamont Blackstone
Nonprofit | New York | Male | 30 Years of Experience
America is at risk of permanently losing its claim to global leadership.
I am feeling that America is at risk of permanently losing its claim to global leadership among democratic nations of the world — unless it responds in a matter consistent with its stated, but historically unfulfilled, values guaranteeing life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
HomematchX CEO Stephen Lewis
Residential Brokerage/Technology | Dallas | Male | 5 Years of Experience
My inner voice says, you have to be a part of the change.
What am I feeling right now are the questions I keep asking myself every time I see black America on the front lines. My inner voice says, you have to be a part of the change and understand how we got here in order to change the path to where we are going. As a black real estate agent, there is no secret that 90% of my customers are black. When I interview with a white family, I wonder if it is the color of my skin that made them choose someone else. I’ve never seen this many people, black, brown and white come together for this long, in addition to corporate leaders feeling unashamed to say Black Lives Matter. The more I think about the endurance to keep fighting, the more hopeful I get in knowing a change is going to come. We have so much energy and are ready to tackle systemic racism, police brutality and laws that govern years of oppression from the 1600s.
Legal | London | Female | 5 Years of Experience
Emotionally drained but hopeful.
Emotionally drained but hopeful that we will start to see some real change. The past few weeks have been tough seeing the world wake up to the injustices which are still happening today, the injustices which black people around the world are all too aware of. The social media posts and news discussions have reminded me of my own painful experiences, which on a day-to-day basis I choose to bury and not think about because they are too painful.
SUDA founder Alan Dones
Development | Oakland | Male | 25 Years of Experience
Optimism is balanced by a sense of urgency.
I’m feeling a sense of optimism stemming from the encouraging signs of growing awareness that fairness and equity for everyone is in the best interest of everyone. This optimism is balanced by a sense of urgency to take advantage of this time while there is worldwide attention on this subject of justice. Now is the time to advance our best ideas for promoting initiatives that will bring about positive change.
The Michaels Organization Regional Vice President Granvel Tate
Finance | Atlanta | Male | 20+ Years of Experience
I feel disheartened.
I feel disheartened that it has taken the death of another black man at the hands of police to have a moment of recognition that systems in the United States have failed to provide its black citizens with the same opportunities, courtesy and justice that it provides its Caucasian citizens. If there are real changes enacted, then maybe George Floyd’s death will not be in vain as so many countless others over the last few years.
Investment | London | Male | 15 Years of Experience
Hope and skepticism.
Hope and skepticism. Hope that, like the MeToo movement, this could be an inflection point from which hard-working BAME [black, Asian and minority ethnic] professionals from all sectors are afforded equal opportunities to progress on a level playing field, and evaluated based on performance alone and not background/ethnicity. Skepticism that the George Floyd sentiment will fade: This has been an ongoing issue for decades (Rodney King was 30 years ago!) and things will revert to the status quo. Senior positions within the real estate sector are still dominated by white males. This is not because there are no qualified BAME or female candidates out there.
Lemor Development Group Managing Member Kenneth Morrison
Development | New York | Male | 32 Years of Experience
We've had a lot of discussions with my son about what this means.
As a parent of a 12-year-old black boy, I definitely feel concerned for the country and for him. I also feel concerned for the community. I also feel hope that there may be real change behind these protests and what we're fighting for.
There's been a lot of protests in my community — I live in Harlem. I participated in two protests with my family. They happened to be right in the community so it was actually kind of convenient. We've had a lot of discussions with my son about what this means [to] make sure he has an understanding of what’s going on and what the history of this has been.
AAREP Los Angeles President Alicia Bramble
Affordable Housing Asset Management | Los Angeles | Female | 15 Years of Experience
We're finally able to voice our opinions.
Myself along with a countless number of African Americans are going through a confluence of emotions. In some ways, we are elated to see that the conversation has changed and that people are starting to use their voices to speak out against these social inequalities that we’re seeing. I think in some ways it’s heartwarming to see the highly diverse crowds in the protest. They are rallying over racial injustice. We’re finally able to voice our opinions and show the world that African Americans deserve equality, justice and the same opportunities as everybody else.
In some other ways, we are sad, confused and angry that it has taken so long for this to finally surface after numerous deaths of African American men, including George Floyd.
Massachusetts Port Authority Legal Specialist Tanya Mitchell
Development | Boston | Female | 8 Years of Experience
I do not feel this is a moment to ask me, or other people of color, how we are feeling.
I do not feel this is a moment to ask me, or other people of color, how we are feeling. It is a time to ask how can I SUPPORT you? How can I be your ALLY? Communities are in pain and have been in pain for hundreds of years. These communities have been voicing concerns time and time again, without seeing the necessary changes needed. Concerns regarding social and economic inequalities are not new concepts. We may have seen progress, but not enough. Additionally, conversations regarding racism in our society and the need for Diversity and Inclusion within corporations have happened for years. Yet, there is still so much more work to be done to move the needle and make the changes needed to see, live and work in a cohesive society. So I, in turn, ask everyone to show through actions, and not with words, how they plan on providing support as an ALLY?
Seritage Growth Properties Chief Operating Officer Kenneth Lombard
Retail Owner | Los Angeles | Male | 30+ Years of Experience
This feels like there is potential to get some traction.
I’m feeling like, as I think about it over the years, this is probably as inclusive a conversation that has taken place with respect to diversity. There have been attempts to have this conversation, whether it’s at various conferences or an individual company-by-company basis. This feels like there is potential to get some traction.
Smith Real Estate Services CEO Pamela Smith
Development Consulting | Atlanta | Female | 36 Years of Experience
This time it feels different.
My feelings right now are mixed. I am so sad about the events that triggered the weeks of protests and peaceful marches. Watching former police officer [Derek] Chauvin press his knee on George Floyd’s neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds and seeing the distant, nonchalant look in his eyes as George pleaded for his life made me weep uncontrollably for hours. That image brought back painful memories from the '60s of black people fighting for civil rights and getting beat by police officers who had the same look in their eyes as Chauvin as he murdered George Floyd.
At the same time, the global response to George Floyd’s death, police brutality and racism has made me hopeful and optimistic. Although there have been many protests in the past in response to the disparate treatment of black people while in police custody or during an arrest, this time it feels different. This time, it seems that people — young and old, rich and poor, black, white, brown, Asian and Native American — have suddenly experienced an awakening. This time, it appears that people have been galvanized because their love for humanity tells them that there is something inherently wrong with a system that has resulted in the senseless death of so many black men and women because of excessive police force and brutality and they are demanding sweeping reforms locally and nationally.
Development | Atlanta | Male | 14 Years of Experience
We are going to need all of the oars in the water.
I must admit, this has been the roughest three weeks in my life since the death of my unborn son. My emotions have ranged from anger to sadness, to frustration, hopelessness and even optimism. I posted on social media that this one felt different. The whole thing felt different: from the murder itself to the reactions, the protests, the looting and the willingness of white folks to get involved. We are going to need all of the oars in the water to stand up against injustice, discrimination, systematic racism and the other ills that plague this nation. We can no longer be silent on this point. Our nation, and most importantly, our children depend on it.
Jarvis Commercial Real Estate Managing Principal Ernie Jarvis
Brokerage | Washington, D.C. | Male | 35 Years of Experience
I am profoundly exhausted.
As an African American commercial real estate brokerage executive, I am profoundly exhausted about discussing the lack of diversity in the commercial real estate brokerage industry. While I am genuinely heartened by the show of corporate support for diversity and inclusion during these tumultuous times, the industry has a long way to go before it authentically reflects the culturally rich and diverse cities and communities in which we operate. I do believe the industry has the potential to do better. Heck, even the NFL and NASCAR agree that change is needed in their respective industry.
Curtis Development Principal Charmaine Curtis
Development | San Francisco | Female | 33 Years of Experience
Somewhere between despair and hope.
There is not a simple answer to this question. Like most African Americans, at any given moment my feelings range somewhere between despair and hope. Despair, anguish and disgust that someone who took an oath to protect and serve thought it was OK to strangle a black man, another human being, in full view of people filming him. And, while it comes at great cost, I feel hopeful that this horrific action has perhaps at long last cracked open even a small fissure exposing to the world the pain, suffering and degradation we have endured since the first enslaved black people were brought to these shores. I am hopeful that we are indeed embarking on a national reckoning with systemic racism and a courageous look into the soul of our nation.
Investment | London | Female | 14 Years of Experience
People are starting to listen — really listen.
I feel positive and hopeful. Because I realise that people are starting to listen — really listen. Not just pay lip service as is typically what happens. I’m hopeful that the things we are witnessing, the conversations we are having and the stories we are hearing signify the beginning of real, much-needed change.
However had you asked me this question 24 hours ago or even last week, the answer would have depended on the particular day, what worldly events had unfolded and whether what I read on social media sickened or pleased me. Over the last few days I’ve been through a roller coaster of emotions from feeling sad, defeated, fed up and hopeless to inspired, re-energised, determined and motivated.
Cushman & Wakefield Executive Vice Chairman Darian Leblanc
Brokerage | Washington, D.C. | Male | 25 Years of Experience
I hope we don’t lose the message.
The discussion surrounding the police in communities of color isn’t new — at least it isn’t new to those communities. But the visual from the past few weeks has been eye-opening. The protests have included every race, generation, religion, gender, economic strata, all walks of life. I was in L.A. during the 1992 uprising, and it was nothing like this. I believe that these protests mark a unified understanding that we can do better as a country. And in that understanding, the underlying senses of division, resentment and blame can begin to abate. But true change can come at a painfully slow pace and I hope we don’t lose the message over the coming months and years.
Development | Houston | Male | 12 Years of Experience
I think this time people will be willing to do the work.
Tired and angry but still optimistic because something feels different this time. It feels like this time the message is actually getting across and eyes are opening. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done across all sectors of business and society in order for us to address racial disparity but I think this time people will be willing to do the work.
CBRE Senior Associate Austin Glover
Retail Brokerage | New York City | Male | 7 Years of Experience
It's a great start.
I'm cautiously optimistic when it comes to this current focus on diversity and inclusion. It's a great start; however, it's extremely clear that too many industries have underinvested in effective diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.
Amanda Strong
Investment | Cambridge, Massachusetts | Female | 20+ Years of Experience
At this point it is not my problem to solve.
I assume you are referring to how I feel about the tragic, disgusting events that have happened recently. Let me call out the names so we can be clear that this is what we are talking about. 1. George Floyd murdered by suffocation by a Minneapolis police officer on videotape. 2. Ahmaud Arbery murdered by terrorists acting like they were self-policing in Atlanta. 3. EMT Breonna Taylor murdered in her bed by plainclothes policemen in Louisville. 4. Christian Cooper’s life endangered by a lying white woman who called 911, stating that “an African American man was threatening her and her dog” when he was waiting for her to put the dog back on the leash in Central Park.
These events remind us of the white privilege that exists in the United States, with undeniable clarity. How am I feeling? Sick, angry and tired. I can tell you that at this point it is not my problem to solve. I look forward to my white colleagues owning the situation we find ourselves in and continuing to hear responses from them about how they feel and what they intend to do. I also think it’s important to make them aware of the impact these events have had on their black colleagues. This is a journey. We also need dialogues, listening and empathy. I’ve been part of some of these dialogues and they are helpful. Finally, although action makes everyone feel good, a big part of this experience is to stop, listen and learn, then act on what you feel passionately about. I suggest some tools to become more informed below.
Book: How To Be An Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi | Aug. 13, 2019
Movie: I Am Not Your Negro, written by James Baldwin and made into a movie in 2016
Article: 75 Things White People can do for Racial Justice, written by Corinne Shutack | Aug. 13, 2017
Article: White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack, written by Peggy McIntosh | 1988
Peebles Corp. founder and CEO Don Peebles
Investment and Development | Washington, D.C. | Male | 36 Years of Experience
The country is at a crossroads.
I think the country is at a crossroads. It’s at a place now that will be looked upon retrospectively as a historic transformation of the nation. When future generations look back at this time, they will see a great transformation in the country.
Innovative Housing CEO Rochelle Mills
Development | Los Angeles | Female | 25+ Years of Experience
I haven't slept well in weeks.
I feel exasperated by the recurrence and cover-up of these horrific acts that rebooted the conversation.
I feel angered that systems and institutions that should protect all protect their own.
I feel encouraged that citizens around the world are standing in solidarity.
I feel confused that so many believe that these are isolated events.
I feel annoyed that this collective outrage will pass as quickly as it came.
I feel exhausted by the numerous (and futile) conversations that have taken place during my lifetime.
I feel overwhelmed by the sense of powerlessness I have to affect meaningful, systemic change.
I feel frustrated that some prioritize merchandise lost over lives lost.
I feel manipulated by media and politicians who use these incidents for headlines, votes and photo ops.
I feel jaded and convinced that discussions will not result in solutions.
I feel sad that I can’t assure my daughter that everything will be OK.
I feel hopeful that social media is exposing uncomfortable truths and demanding action in ways that invalidate claims of ignorance. (I believe good will come. It has to, right?)
I feel tired because I haven’t slept well in weeks.
Investment | Chicago | Female | 40+ Years of Experience
Anger, sadness, determination and resolve.
Brokerage | London | Female | 4 Years of Experience
This is the first time I have felt somewhat comfortable to have an open conversation.
I am torn between two minds. On one hand, I am overwhelmed with hope from the traction that the Black Lives Matter movement has had, which has brought support from all sections of society, and more importantly crucial conversations to the forefront, no doubt bringing some change. On the other hand, I am quietly pessimistic as to whether the support will continue when this is no longer trending. I say that because the horrific murder of George Floyd was not my tipping point. For years, I have seen many videos of excessive violence against black people by police, bringing painful reminders that systemic racism not only exists in the shadows of society, subtly denying opportunities white people have taken for granted, but also brutal and brazen racism exists in the streets in plain sight. However, this is the first time I have felt somewhat comfortable to have an open conversation about it at work and with my non-black friends.
Retail | New York | Male | 15 Years of Experience
I can only be cautiously optimistic.
I feel this is an opportunity for change, but based on how the industry has provided access and career advancement and opportunities in the past, I can only be cautiously optimistic.
Ackerman & Co. Senior Vice President Steve Langford
Investment Sales Brokerage | Atlanta | Male | 12 Years of Experience
An issue that has festered for so long.
A mix of emotions. For starters, a profound sadness at the hurt and frustration currently experienced by the country as a whole. But also, a sense of encouragement that an issue that has festered for so long, and is a very real problem in the daily lives of African Americans, is seemingly and finally being understood by many in this country with a different skin complexion. It is unfortunate that it took witnessing the public murder of an unarmed and handcuffed African American to reveal this reality, but here we are.
Project Destined founder Cedric Bobo
Training | Washington, D.C. | Male | 15 Years of Experience
Reflective and inspired.
Reflective and inspired. We are in an incredible period where CRE leaders are acknowledging, listening, learning and reflecting. The words are there; l am inspired we will collectively act and lead the transition from words to action.
BFW Construction President and CEO Blane Soddart
Construction | Philadelphia | Male | 25+ Years of Experience
Philly commercial real estate is absolutely segregated.
Let's talk about commercial real estate. Philly commercial real estate is absolutely segregated. You go to a Bisnow event in Washington and you have hundreds of attendees and 50% or more are people of color. Travel 120 miles north to Philadelphia and at a similar Bisnow event with 300 attendees and only five to 10 attendees (3%) are black or people of color. Philadelphia is completely segregated as it relates to economic inclusion. It is racialized; even the black business owners are rare in the mainstream. Philadelphia is 55% minority yet only 2.5% of the gross receipts tax comes from black/Latino businesses. It’s hard to find commercial brokers that are black. I can only think of one or two.
Development | London | Male | 6 Years of Experience
I feel begrudgingly hopeful.
I feel begrudgingly hopeful. Hope that the outpouring of support on social media and in protest around the country might be the start of a real change. At the same time, that hope is tempered by frustration that it’s taken this long to openly acknowledge the issue. We live in a society where we (myself included) are uncomfortable to openly discuss the obvious privileges that are afforded to some based on historic and systematic inequalities. The issue is so intrinsic to me that the fraught conversation which we are having now feels premature to the point of being antagonising.
Dominus Commercial Vice President Aaliyah Haqq
Brokerage | Dallas-Fort Worth | Female | 2 Years of Experience
I am disturbed.
I have mixed emotions ranging from sadness to hope. I am disturbed to know that globally, we witnessed something traumatic, a murder. To think many people have been able to witness such a tragedy and rationalize “why” in a way that turns the victim into a perpetrator of his own murder is horribly enlightening. My hope helps me to believe the long-awaited, much-needed change will come.
Finance | Dallas | Male | 25 Years of Experience
I have lived with this fear over 50 years and it’s not going away.
I am filled with emotions. I have lived with a fear for the safety of my children in a country where in many cases their lives are not valued by many of our fellow American citizens and they are 2.5 times more likely to be killed because they are African American. I am optimistically encouraged by the peaceful protests that are going on now, but I have lived with this fear over 50 years, and it’s not going away until the hearts and minds of those who promote the systematic racism change.
T. Dallas Smith & Co. advisor Detra Reid
Office Brokerage | Atlanta | Female | 12 Years of Experience
I feel a change is coming.
In this moment, I’m actually having mixed emotions. On a positive note, I feel a change is coming. It may not be overnight, but at least the elephant in the room is finally being addressed. I’ve had several colleagues check in with me partially to see how I am feeling, but mainly out of their own concerns. With all of the media coverage, my white friends who are parents are wanting to know how to best explain to their children the reasoning behind the protests. The children are curious, they are questioning their parents, and they want answers. They’re asking tough questions such as, “why don’t they or their parents have black friends?” As a result, I see some of my white colleagues intentionally wanting to find ways to deepen the relationship we share.
On the other hand, I’m sad that we are still addressing this issue in 2020. And although conversations regarding discrimination and racism towards black people are starting to be discussed, I still find it to be a very uncomfortable conversation to have, although I feel the same pain and anger as the rest of the black community.
Roosevelt University, Marshall Bennett Institute of Real Estate Executive Director Collete English Dixon
Investment Management | Chicago | Female | 30+ Years of Experience
Being black always has an impact on whatever you do.
Right now, I’m feeling a mixture of anger, frustration, hope and just exhaustion. The most recent events evidencing the lack of respect for the lives of black people are just a continuation of what has gone on in the U.S. for far too long. Watching the murder of two unarmed black men (George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery) was just too much on top of knowing that black Americans are four times more likely to die from COVID-19. I have lived long enough to be frustrated by the lack of progress against the issues caused by racism that continue to plague the black community. No matter who or where you are in this country — being black always has an impact on whatever you do. I am tired of the talk and lack of commitment to create sustained change. I am hopeful because of the engagement we have seen by so many non-black people and so many young people protesting and calling out the injustice, inequalities and just plain racism that has so negatively impacted the black community. I just hope that this time is truly different.
Property Management | Los Angeles | Female | 25+ Years of Experience
It angers me that it has to be a topic of discussion.
Although I feel strongly about inclusion and diversity, it angers me that it has to be a topic of discussion, protesting and rioting. It should not be necessary for companies and organizations to create policies for something that should not be a factor in any decision-making. We are all part of the same species and should be treated as such.
Project REAP Board of Directors Chair Lamont Blackstone
Nonprofit | New York | Male | 30 Years of Experience
America is at risk of permanently losing its claim to global leadership.
I am feeling that America is at risk of permanently losing its claim to global leadership among democratic nations of the world — unless it responds in a matter consistent with its stated, but historically unfulfilled, values guaranteeing life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
HomematchX CEO Stephen Lewis
Residential Brokerage/Technology | Dallas | Male | 5 Years of Experience
My inner voice says, you have to be a part of the change.
What am I feeling right now are the questions I keep asking myself every time I see black America on the front lines. My inner voice says, you have to be a part of the change and understand how we got here in order to change the path to where we are going. As a black real estate agent, there is no secret that 90% of my customers are black. When I interview with a white family, I wonder if it is the color of my skin that made them choose someone else. I’ve never seen this many people, black, brown and white come together for this long, in addition to corporate leaders feeling unashamed to say Black Lives Matter. The more I think about the endurance to keep fighting, the more hopeful I get in knowing a change is going to come. We have so much energy and are ready to tackle systemic racism, police brutality and laws that govern years of oppression from the 1600s.
Legal | London | Female | 5 Years of Experience
Emotionally drained but hopeful.
Emotionally drained but hopeful that we will start to see some real change. The past few weeks have been tough seeing the world wake up to the injustices which are still happening today, the injustices which black people around the world are all too aware of. The social media posts and news discussions have reminded me of my own painful experiences, which on a day-to-day basis I choose to bury and not think about because they are too painful.
SUDA founder Alan Dones
Development | Oakland | Male | 25 Years of Experience
Optimism is balanced by a sense of urgency.
I’m feeling a sense of optimism stemming from the encouraging signs of growing awareness that fairness and equity for everyone is in the best interest of everyone. This optimism is balanced by a sense of urgency to take advantage of this time while there is worldwide attention on this subject of justice. Now is the time to advance our best ideas for promoting initiatives that will bring about positive change.
The Michaels Organization Regional Vice President Granvel Tate
Finance | Atlanta | Male | 20+ Years of Experience
I feel disheartened.
I feel disheartened that it has taken the death of another black man at the hands of police to have a moment of recognition that systems in the United States have failed to provide its black citizens with the same opportunities, courtesy and justice that it provides its Caucasian citizens. If there are real changes enacted, then maybe George Floyd’s death will not be in vain as so many countless others over the last few years.
Investment | London | Male | 15 Years of Experience
Hope and skepticism.
Hope and skepticism. Hope that, like the MeToo movement, this could be an inflection point from which hard-working BAME [black, Asian and minority ethnic] professionals from all sectors are afforded equal opportunities to progress on a level playing field, and evaluated based on performance alone and not background/ethnicity. Skepticism that the George Floyd sentiment will fade: This has been an ongoing issue for decades (Rodney King was 30 years ago!) and things will revert to the status quo. Senior positions within the real estate sector are still dominated by white males. This is not because there are no qualified BAME or female candidates out there.
Lemor Development Group Managing Member Kenneth Morrison
Development | New York | Male | 32 Years of Experience
We've had a lot of discussions with my son about what this means.
As a parent of a 12-year-old black boy, I definitely feel concerned for the country and for him. I also feel concerned for the community. I also feel hope that there may be real change behind these protests and what we're fighting for.
There's been a lot of protests in my community — I live in Harlem. I participated in two protests with my family. They happened to be right in the community so it was actually kind of convenient. We've had a lot of discussions with my son about what this means [to] make sure he has an understanding of what’s going on and what the history of this has been.
AAREP Los Angeles President Alicia Bramble
Affordable Housing Asset Management | Los Angeles | Female | 15 Years of Experience
We're finally able to voice our opinions.
Myself along with a countless number of African Americans are going through a confluence of emotions. In some ways, we are elated to see that the conversation has changed and that people are starting to use their voices to speak out against these social inequalities that we’re seeing. I think in some ways it’s heartwarming to see the highly diverse crowds in the protest. They are rallying over racial injustice. We’re finally able to voice our opinions and show the world that African Americans deserve equality, justice and the same opportunities as everybody else.
In some other ways, we are sad, confused and angry that it has taken so long for this to finally surface after numerous deaths of African American men, including George Floyd.
Massachusetts Port Authority Legal Specialist Tanya Mitchell
Development | Boston | Female | 8 Years of Experience
I do not feel this is a moment to ask me, or other people of color, how we are feeling.
I do not feel this is a moment to ask me, or other people of color, how we are feeling. It is a time to ask how can I SUPPORT you? How can I be your ALLY? Communities are in pain and have been in pain for hundreds of years. These communities have been voicing concerns time and time again, without seeing the necessary changes needed. Concerns regarding social and economic inequalities are not new concepts. We may have seen progress, but not enough. Additionally, conversations regarding racism in our society and the need for Diversity and Inclusion within corporations have happened for years. Yet, there is still so much more work to be done to move the needle and make the changes needed to see, live and work in a cohesive society. So I, in turn, ask everyone to show through actions, and not with words, how they plan on providing support as an ALLY?
Seritage Growth Properties Chief Operating Officer Kenneth Lombard
Retail Owner | Los Angeles | Male | 30+ Years of Experience
This feels like there is potential to get some traction.
I’m feeling like, as I think about it over the years, this is probably as inclusive a conversation that has taken place with respect to diversity. There have been attempts to have this conversation, whether it’s at various conferences or an individual company-by-company basis. This feels like there is potential to get some traction.
Smith Real Estate Services CEO Pamela Smith
Development Consulting | Atlanta | Female | 36 Years of Experience
This time it feels different.
My feelings right now are mixed. I am so sad about the events that triggered the weeks of protests and peaceful marches. Watching former police officer [Derek] Chauvin press his knee on George Floyd’s neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds and seeing the distant, nonchalant look in his eyes as George pleaded for his life made me weep uncontrollably for hours. That image brought back painful memories from the '60s of black people fighting for civil rights and getting beat by police officers who had the same look in their eyes as Chauvin as he murdered George Floyd.
At the same time, the global response to George Floyd’s death, police brutality and racism has made me hopeful and optimistic. Although there have been many protests in the past in response to the disparate treatment of black people while in police custody or during an arrest, this time it feels different. This time, it seems that people — young and old, rich and poor, black, white, brown, Asian and Native American — have suddenly experienced an awakening. This time, it appears that people have been galvanized because their love for humanity tells them that there is something inherently wrong with a system that has resulted in the senseless death of so many black men and women because of excessive police force and brutality and they are demanding sweeping reforms locally and nationally.
Development | Atlanta | Male | 14 Years of Experience
We are going to need all of the oars in the water.
I must admit, this has been the roughest three weeks in my life since the death of my unborn son. My emotions have ranged from anger to sadness, to frustration, hopelessness and even optimism. I posted on social media that this one felt different. The whole thing felt different: from the murder itself to the reactions, the protests, the looting and the willingness of white folks to get involved. We are going to need all of the oars in the water to stand up against injustice, discrimination, systematic racism and the other ills that plague this nation. We can no longer be silent on this point. Our nation, and most importantly, our children depend on it.
Jarvis Commercial Real Estate Managing Principal Ernie Jarvis
Brokerage | Washington, D.C. | Male | 35 Years of Experience
I am profoundly exhausted.
As an African American commercial real estate brokerage executive, I am profoundly exhausted about discussing the lack of diversity in the commercial real estate brokerage industry. While I am genuinely heartened by the show of corporate support for diversity and inclusion during these tumultuous times, the industry has a long way to go before it authentically reflects the culturally rich and diverse cities and communities in which we operate. I do believe the industry has the potential to do better. Heck, even the NFL and NASCAR agree that change is needed in their respective industry.
Curtis Development Principal Charmaine Curtis
Development | San Francisco | Female | 33 Years of Experience
Somewhere between despair and hope.
There is not a simple answer to this question. Like most African Americans, at any given moment my feelings range somewhere between despair and hope. Despair, anguish and disgust that someone who took an oath to protect and serve thought it was OK to strangle a black man, another human being, in full view of people filming him. And, while it comes at great cost, I feel hopeful that this horrific action has perhaps at long last cracked open even a small fissure exposing to the world the pain, suffering and degradation we have endured since the first enslaved black people were brought to these shores. I am hopeful that we are indeed embarking on a national reckoning with systemic racism and a courageous look into the soul of our nation.
Investment | London | Female | 14 Years of Experience
People are starting to listen — really listen.
I feel positive and hopeful. Because I realise that people are starting to listen — really listen. Not just pay lip service as is typically what happens. I’m hopeful that the things we are witnessing, the conversations we are having and the stories we are hearing signify the beginning of real, much-needed change.
However had you asked me this question 24 hours ago or even last week, the answer would have depended on the particular day, what worldly events had unfolded and whether what I read on social media sickened or pleased me. Over the last few days I’ve been through a roller coaster of emotions from feeling sad, defeated, fed up and hopeless to inspired, re-energised, determined and motivated.
Cushman & Wakefield Executive Vice Chairman Darian Leblanc
Brokerage | Washington, D.C. | Male | 25 Years of Experience
I hope we don’t lose the message.
The discussion surrounding the police in communities of color isn’t new — at least it isn’t new to those communities. But the visual from the past few weeks has been eye-opening. The protests have included every race, generation, religion, gender, economic strata, all walks of life. I was in L.A. during the 1992 uprising, and it was nothing like this. I believe that these protests mark a unified understanding that we can do better as a country. And in that understanding, the underlying senses of division, resentment and blame can begin to abate. But true change can come at a painfully slow pace and I hope we don’t lose the message over the coming months and years.
Development | Houston | Male | 12 Years of Experience
I think this time people will be willing to do the work.
Tired and angry but still optimistic because something feels different this time. It feels like this time the message is actually getting across and eyes are opening. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done across all sectors of business and society in order for us to address racial disparity but I think this time people will be willing to do the work.
CBRE Senior Associate Austin Glover
Retail Brokerage | New York City | Male | 7 Years of Experience
It's a great start.
I'm cautiously optimistic when it comes to this current focus on diversity and inclusion. It's a great start; however, it's extremely clear that too many industries have underinvested in effective diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.
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