ONGOING EFFORTS

• Equity Board and Apology: The Roanoke Equity Board is working towards a public apology for the harm caused by urban renewal policies. Facebook - The Roanoke Ramblers

• Roanoke Justice Ministries, Inc. (Formerly Faith Works in the Roanoke Valley): This organization focuses on ending racism and poverty in the Roanoke Valley by uniting congregations and addressing systemic issues. https://www.faithworksintheroanokevalley.com/ 

• Center for Studying Structures of Race (CSSR): Located at Roanoke College, the CSSR addresses race issues through examining the physical structures on and around campus that reveal histories of slavery and institutional racism. 

• Racial Justice Rallies: Activists have organized rallies to advocate for racial justice and protest instances of racial injustice. 

•Living the Pledge to End Racism: The Unitarian Universalist Church of Roanoke participates in a national initiative to end racism by encouraging individuals to treat all people with dignity and respect.

• Interfaith Collaboration: Churches and religious organizations are working to bridge racial divides and
promote understanding.

CHALLENGES and DISPARITIES 

• Wealth Gap: Disparities in wealth between Black and white residents persist, partly due to historical
barriers to homeownership and other opportunities.
• Community Relations: Some residents report that racial hostility can still influence community dynamics,
even if not openly expressed.
• Housing Segregation: While some progress has been made, housing segregation and limited social
interaction between racial groups remain a challenge.
• Continued Activism: Efforts to address racial justice are ongoing, and activism continues to push for
change.
Learn about the vibrant African-American community of Gainsboro
• https://www.visitroanokeva.com/things-to-do/history-and-heritage/black-history/historic-gainsborodowntown-roanoke-tour/
• https://www.visitroanokeva.com/things-to-do/history-and-heritage/black-history/
Want to read more? Check out the independent bookstore in Roanoke that features local authors and history
about Roanoke’s past here: https://www.booknofurther.com/book/9780316337526