Racism has no home here.

Discriminatory covenants have been used to keep people of color from buying houses in certain Minnesota neighborhoods. The result is a century of segregated communities.

Together, we can acknowledge this discrimination, discharge these covenants and build a foundation for more inclusive communities.

Discriminatory covenants have been used to keep people of color from buying houses in certain Minnesota neighborhoods. The result is a century of segregated communities.

Together, we can acknowledge this discrimination, discharge these covenants and build a foundation for more inclusive communities.

An example of a racially restrictive covenant: “That the said land or buildings thereon shall never be rented, leased or sold, transferred or conveyed to, nor shall same be occupied exclusively by person or persons other than of the Caucasian Race.” An example of a racially restrictive covenant: “That the said land or buildings thereon shall never be rented, leased or sold, transferred or conveyed to, nor shall same be occupied exclusively by person or persons other than of the Caucasian Race.”

Minnesota law now allows property owners to remove shameful and discriminatory language from property titles.

 

The Just Deeds Project is taking action now to help homeowners and cities by providing free legal and title services, along with access to online tools and volunteer opportunities.

Discharging these covenants doesn’t erase the harm they caused. But facing this history is the first step for homeowners and municipalities to begin to address the adverse effects on communities of color. This includes stifling access to wealth, education, policing, safety, neighborhood parks and public transportation – what other communities take for granted.

Cities Participating in Just Deeds >

Find out if your city is a partner.

Homeowners, Buyers and Sellers >

Determine if a covenant stains your title, how to discharge it and next steps for change.

Real Estate Professionals >

Donate your time and talents to become an agent for change.

Government Officials and Staff >

See how cities are implementing Just Deeds to educate their clients about systemic racism.

Attorneys >

Volunteer your legal expertise to help Just Deeds.

Volunteers and the Community >

Get involved. Learn how to build homeownership and economic vitality for all.

Putting prejudice on the map.

Seeing is believing. Watch how discriminatory covenants were used to purposefully develop segregated communities over time in the Twin Cities, block by block.

Learn More

The Just Deeds Coalition Founding Members

Edina Realty Title Minneapolis Area Realtors Mapping Prejudice Minnesota Association of City Attorneys City of Golden Valley