In 2022, the GAAR Board of Directors took the first steps in joining the National Association of REALTORS® in providing guidance and support to diversity initiatives to create cultural shifts and increase a sense of belonging among members at GAAR and our community with the goal of reducing barriers to home ownership.

The newly approved ABCD committee stands for Advancing Belonging, Community, and Diversity and is open to all members:

ABCD Committee Meetings
2nd Friday each month
10:00 am -11:30 am
GAAR Building, 1635 University Blvd NE

If you are interested in joining this committee, please contact your staff liaison, Heather Price at 505-843-8833 or email heather@swmls.com.

Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands

Start the new year with a free presentation on cultural fluency designed to provide valuable insight on how to handle common business interactions with grace, respect, and an appreciation for different cultures.

This month's presentation is hosted by the Advancing Belonging, Community, and Diversity Committee (ABCD) with content based on the best-selling guide Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands. In addition, the first 80 in-person attendees will receive a free copy of the book.

Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands
Wednesday, January 3rd

9:00 - 9:30 am: Free Breakfast
9:30 - 11:00 am: Presentation with Q & A  
GAAR Auditorium, 1635 University Blvd NE

Meet Your Panelists

Baro Shalizi, Shalizi Real Estate
Originally from Afghanistan, Baro was born in India and has lived in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the former Soviet Union before moving to the US. He received his B.A. in Languages from Brandies University in Boston and his M.A. in International Law & International Business from The American University in Washington, D.C. Baro has been a Realtor® since 1992 and continues to pursue real estate knowledge, holds multiple designations, and is certified to teach At Home With Diversity and Bias Overrider for NAR and NMREC. He has served on NAR's Diversity Committee, as NMAR President, and was named REALTOR® of the Year by the SFAR for his outstanding ethics, knowledge, and contributions to both the REALTOR® Community and the community at large.

Faith Begay-Holtrop, Paradise Mortgage & Invest LLC
Faith is a Mortgage Loan Officer with over 25 years of experience, including real estate consulting, sales, finance, marketing, and small business ownership. Faith is proud to be a Native New Mexican and to be 50% Diné (Navajo) from Naschitti, NM. She holds a BA in Small Business Management from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI. In her spare time, she loves to travel, ski, hike, puzzle, and play games with her friends and family.

Jorge Lopez, Fidelity National Title
Jorge brings extensive experience in marketing and advertising as well as a diverse real estate background to his role as an AVP Sales Executive. During his tenure, he has become the top-producing sales executive in the state, was the #1 producer in his region, and in the Top 2% in the nation amongst his peers. He serves as the Sponsor Liaison on the CARNM Board of Directors and is an active participant in GAAR’s Affiliate Committee. Jorge earned a Bachelor's in Marketing from NMSU and is fluent in Spanish. What truly motivates Jorge is his amazing wife, Cindy, and their four incredible daughters who provide daily inspiration to work hard, have fun, and enjoy life.

Monica Martinez-McNeil, ERA Summit
Born and raised in New Mexico, Monica is a residential REALTOR®. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, she has a passion for bringing more equality to the home buying and selling process for others in the queer community, as well as an emphasis on addressing housing inequality issues for underserved communities. She serves on the ABCD committee with the hopes of shedding light on and finding solutions to the current imbalances within our society. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and bird watching as well as pursuing estate sales. Her preferred pronouns are She/Her/Hers and her preferred chile choice is Red.

ABCD Announcements and Resources
December 2023

1. 2023 City Leaders Academy session
   Saturday, December 2nd
   10:30 am - 1:30 pm
   Botts Memorial Hall - Special Collections Library
   432 Central NE Albuquerque, NM 87102
   At this session we will be presenting some of the ways that the City of Albuquerque acknowledges and preserves historic sites, including steps that community members can take. We’ll also discuss recent changes and upcoming proposals to meet housing and economic development needs in the city. Food and drinks will be provided.
    
2. Fannie Mae change in guidelines; Increasing Affordable Housing Supply and Credit
   only need 5% down for multi-family units between 2-4 units starting November 18th
   https://singlefamily.fanniemae.com/media/37106/display
    
3. National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center events for November
   https://www.niwrc.org/upcoming-events
   
   Upcoming Webinars:
   Nov 30 Peer-to-Peer event to learn from 4 Tribal Sister Programs that have met this challenge and come away with much to offer.
   Dec 6 This webinar focuses on how Land/ Environmental violence specifically impacts maternal and reproductive health, spiritual well-being, and emotional safety.
    
4. Resource for Navajo Nation Housing Authority: https://navajohousingauthority.org
    
5. Navajo homeowner assistance: http://nativecap.org/nhoafund/
    
6. Veterans Integration Center (VIC) housing resources for Veterans and their families https://www.nmvic.org/housing
    
7. Using FHA’s 203(k) program to renovate or build an ADU from the Office of Single Family Housing, available through FHA approved lenders: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/SFH/documents/203_k_consumer_FS.pdf
    
8. The Sawmill Community Land Trust has homes available for sale to low-income, first-time buyers. Should you know of someone that would benefit, please encourage them to get qualified. Contact Margie Marino - Applications are at www.sawmillclt.org
    
9. NAR Diversity and Inclusion grant will be available January 2024
    
10. NAR Fair housing grant will be available January 2024

Community Activities in August 2023

In The Know…what’s happening in Real Estate from the ABDC committee

Be a part of decisions and planning for Central Albuquerque:

Central ABQ Public Engagement Forum

Community and Social Services

Thursday, August 17th
3:00 - 5:00 pm (in-person) 
239 Elm St NE,  Albuquerque 87102

Topics will include youth programs, housing and food assistance, personal wellness, and public safety programs.

Land Use and Development

Monday, August 21
2:00 - 4:00 pm (on August 20th - click here for online meeting link)

Topics will include zoning, urban development, and more!

For more on upcoming events from Community Planning areas, visit  https://cpa.abq-zone.com/central-abq-public-engagement

A shout-out to a local treasure:

Downtown Albuquerque News for their continued contributions to the community on very local news

Community Activities in July

Route 66 Summerfest 2023 - A Free Community International Extravaganza!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with music, food, shopping, and family-friendly activities. 

When and Where
Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 22nd, 2023, from 5 pm to 10 pm. The festival will be held on a one-mile stretch along Central Ave., between Girard and Washington. With an extensive area to explore, you can expect a vibrant atmosphere buzzing with energy and cultural delights.

A Multicultural Music Extravaganza
One of the main highlights of Route 66 Summerfest 2023 is the lineup of International Musicians that will grace four stages throughout the event. From soulful melodies to foot-tapping beats, the music will captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds. So, bring your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the rhythm of diverse sounds from around the world!

Food Trucks and Merchant Vendors
Indulge your taste buds with an array of mouthwatering dishes from various cuisines at the food trucks lined up at the festival. Whether you're a foodie or just looking to try something new, there will be something to satisfy every craving. Additionally, merchant vendors will offer a diverse range of products and crafts, perfect for finding unique gifts or treating yourself to something special.

Family-Friendly Fun
Route 66 Summerfest is a family-friendly event, making it an ideal outing for everyone. Parents can bring their little ones along to enjoy an exciting assortment of activities and entertainment tailored for children. From face painting to interactive games, there will be plenty of ways for kids to have a blast.

Parking and Transportation
There will be both paid parking lots and street parking available in the surrounding vicinity. Be sure to adhere to all parking laws to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

If you want to avoid the traffic and enjoy a stress-free commute, take advantage of the free Park & Ride service. Simply park your vehicle in the designated lot on the southwest corner of Lomas Blvd. and University Blvd. and hop on the free shuttle bus. These buses will take you directly to UNM’s Johnson Field, located next to Girard Blvd., throughout the event. The last bus will depart at 10:30 p.m., so you can enjoy the festivities to the fullest.

Connecting with the Community
Beyond the music, food, and activities, Route 66 Summerfest provides an incredible opportunity to connect with the diverse community of Nob Hill. Meet new people, share stories, and celebrate the unity of cultures and backgrounds that make this neighborhood so unique.

Stay Updated
For more detailed information about the event, schedule, and any last-minute changes, visit the official website: https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/things-to-do/annual-events/summerfest/route66-summerfest.

Come together with friends, family, and neighbors to celebrate the diversity, culture, and spirit of the community.

Community Activities in June

Juneteenth

The ABCD Committee participated in the NM Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 17th to promote Home Ownership, Equal Housing, and other GAAR outreach efforts. 

This three-day community event was free to attend with soul food, music, local and national performers! 

NM Juneteenth Celebration
June 16th - 18th
Civic Plaza & Convention Center

Juneteenth: Celebrating Freedom and Embracing Unity

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual holiday observed on June 19th in the United States. It commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and holds significant historical and cultural importance.

The origins of Juneteenth can be traced back to June 19, 1865, when General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced General Order No. 3, which declared that all enslaved individuals in Texas were free. This event took place over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. The delay in the news reaching Texas was primarily due to the minimal presence of Union troops in the state during the Civil War and the resistance of slaveholders to inform their enslaved population of their freedom.

Juneteenth represents a significant milestone in American history as it marked the true end of slavery in the United States. It symbolizes the triumph of freedom over oppression and stands as a testament to the resilience and perseverance of African Americans throughout history.

The observance of Juneteenth varies across different communities and regions. Traditionally, celebrations include parades, picnics, family gatherings, and community events. These festivities often feature music, dance performances, historical reenactments, and readings of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth has become an occasion to honor African American culture, heritage, and achievements. It serves as a platform to highlight the contributions of African Americans to society and to promote unity and racial equality.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition and acknowledgment of Juneteenth's significance. Many states have officially recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday, and there have been ongoing efforts to make it a federally recognized holiday. The recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday in the United States was achieved in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed it into law.

Juneteenth also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. It is an opportunity to reflect on the history of slavery, the civil rights movement, and the challenges that persist in the fight against systemic racism. Education and awareness play crucial roles in ensuring that the historical significance of Juneteenth is understood and passed on to future generations.

Juneteenth holds a special place in American history as a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the continued pursuit of equality. It serves as a reminder of the struggles endured by African Americans and emphasizes the importance of unity, education, and progress toward a more just and inclusive society.

Albuquerque Pride Parade

June is recognized in many countries as Pride Month, a month dedicated to honoring and promoting the rights, visibility, and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance in society. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work that still needs to be done to create a world that embraces diversity and inclusivity for all.

GAAR's Advancing Belonging, Community & Diversity (ABCD) Committee participated in the Pride Parade with the theme Everyone is Welcome. The ABCD Committee began in 2022 as an initiative of the GAAR Board of Directors to provide guidance and support to diversity initiatives to create cultural shifts and increase a sense of belonging among members and the community. The Committee is focused on identifying and reducing the barriers to homeownership.

Albuquerque Pride Parade
Saturday, June 10th
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Nob Hill 

Event Details

Parade Route:  Starts at Central & Girard, proceeds E. along Central to San Mateo
Parking:  Side streets off Central, as Central will be closed
Where to Watch:  Along Central, most businesses are expected to be open. There will be vendor tables and food trucks along the route.
After the Parade:  Albuquerque PrideFest at Balloon Fiesta Park. Click here for more information.

Pride Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the ongoing challenges and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. It serves as a platform to advocate for equal rights, social justice, and acceptance, seeking to address issues such as discrimination and the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Pride Month is not only for LGBTQ+ individuals themselves but also encourages allies—friends, family members, and supporters—to join in the celebrations and stand in solidarity. Allies play a vital role in creating inclusive environments and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, ensuring that everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.

Why is this Important to Brokers?

A recent study by the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance shows that discrimination limits homeownership in LGBTQ+ populations which are estimated to hold the potential of $1 trillion in buying power in the housing market. To rectify that, the National Association of REALTORS® has taken steps to address housing discrimination in LGBTQ+ populations and promote fair housing practices.

Here are some of the NAR Initiatives and Policies implemented:

Code of Ethics:  NAR outlines the ethical responsibilities of its members, which includes a commitment to providing equal professional services without discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Fair Housing Initiatives: NAR actively supports fair housing initiatives that aim to eliminate discrimination in housing. They work with advocacy groups, governmental agencies, and other stakeholders to promote fair housing practices and protect the rights of marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals.

Policy Advocacy: NAR engages in policy advocacy to support fair housing laws and regulations that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from housing discrimination. They work to promote legislation that prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in housing.

LGBTQ+ Real Estate Resource: NAR provides resources and information for real estate professionals to better serve LGBTQ+ clients and address their unique housing needs. These resources may include best practices, guidance on inclusive language, and educational materials to promote understanding and sensitivity.

Partnerships and Education: NAR collaborates with LGBTQ+ organizations and partners to enhance education and awareness among real estate professionals about LGBTQ+ housing issues. This includes providing training programs, workshops, and resources that help REALTORS® understand the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ homebuyers and renters.

It's worth noting that while NAR can set guidelines and promote fair housing practices, it is up to individual real estate professionals to adhere to these principles. The enforcement of fair housing laws and regulations ultimately falls under the jurisdiction of government agencies responsible for upholding fair housing rights.

About Pride Month

Pride Month is a dedicated period celebrated annually in many countries around the world, typically during the month of June. It is a time when the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) community and its allies come together to commemorate and recognize the impact, struggles, achievements, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history.

Pride Month serves multiple purposes. First and foremost, it celebrates diversity, acceptance, and the right to be proud of one's sexual orientation or gender identity. It is a time to embrace and affirm LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and visibility. Pride events often include parades, festivals, marches, educational workshops, and cultural activities that promote inclusivity and equality.

Pride Month has its roots in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, particularly the Stonewall riots that took place in June 1969 in New York City. During those events, the LGBTQ+ community fought back against discriminatory police raids at the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in Greenwich Village. These protests marked a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and served as a catalyst for the modern gay rights movement.