Skip to main content

Hoyer Remarks at Bowie State University Event Highlighting Biden Administration's Efforts to Strengthen Homeownership Opportunities

February 22, 2023

BOWIE, MD - Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) delivered remarks at a Bowie State University event with Vice President Kamala Harris to recognize the Biden Administration's efforts to strengthen first-time homebuyer opportunities for new borrowers. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery:


"Good afternoon; I'm glad to be here today with Dr. Breaux, Governor Moore, and Vice President Harris.

"Affordable housing and homeownership are integral to building a stronger, more equitable economy. Owning a home is essential to 'the pursuit of happiness' that defines America. It allows workers and families to live in greater financial security, to build wealth, and to pass it on to future generations.

"For too long, however, many Americans have been excluded from that crucial opportunity. From redlining to predatory lending, Black Americans and other communities of color have faced significant barriers to homeownership for generations. Indeed, a few months ago, Pew found that the gap between white and Black homeownership in America was two points larger in 2022 than it was in 1960.

"This disparity is fueling our nation's racial wealth gap and is holding these communities – and our country – back. It is an issue that requires coordination between every level of government and community partners like Bowie State and HomeFree-USA.

"Their partnership on the Center for Financial Advancement, for instance, is helping to build a more inclusive real estate industry and to prepare thousands of HBCU students to become first-time homebuyers.

"I also look forward to continuing to work with Governor Moore and the Biden-Harris Administration to open up new pathways to homeownership for first-time buyers throughout our state and country.

"We must ensure that our people have the opportunities they need to make it in Maryland and to Make It In America. Together, we can set families up for success in that great ‘pursuit of happiness' which drives our nation forward. Thank you.