John Legend Calls on Realtors Across the Country to Do Their Part to Help Fix Structural Racism

From House Beautiful

Music super star John Legend has called on realtors across the country to do their part to help fix structural racism in housing by showing Black people "all the properties" for which they qualify.

The move came in response to a report from TMZ, which covered the decision by the Houston Association of Realtors to stop using the word "master" to describe bedrooms because of its connections to slavery. Realtors will instead use the term "primary" bedroom.

In spite of the change, Legend suggested the group was not actually addressing the "real problem" at hand.

"Fake problem: calling the master bedroom the master bedroom," Legend wrote in a thread on Twitter. "Fix the real problem, realtors."

Legend went on to discuss the "real problem": the "widespread" and "well-documented" practice of Black homebuyers not being shown homes in an equal manner.

"It doesn't mean 100% of you do it," Legend added. "It means it's widespread and well-documented enough to be an actual issue. As my grandfather/pastor used to say, 'I'm not talkin bout u unless it's u.'"

While thanking realtors who were not involved in the racist practice, Legend at the same time encouraged them to use their voices to press for systemic change.

"But also show some leadership by recognizing that it's real and encouraging your colleagues to do better," he continued.

As for what word to use instead of "master," Legend offered a different suggestion than simply "primary."

"All MTV Cribs viewers know that 'this is where the magic happens' is the only acceptable name for where the homeowner sleeps," he concluded the thread.

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