(EREB) was organized in 1939 by seven black real estate brokers who were dissatisfied with the status quo" relating to housing conditions in Atlanta for blacks. Additionally, they were dissatisfied with the conditions for black real estate practitioners and were denied membership in the National Association of Realtors (NAR) trade organization. The Founding Members were: W. Bell, Wendell Cunningham, Roger Henderson, J. R. Wilson, Jr. and N. D. Jones. In the 1940’s black real estate professionals all across America formed similar local organizations to address the conditions for Black consumers and real estate practitioners in their communities. And, they determined the need to form a national real estate trade association to address their common needs. Thus, in 1947 twelve pioneers, one woman and eleven men hailing from seven states across the country met in Tampa, Florida, to form the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc. (NAREB); making it the oldest minority trade association in America. It was there that the “REALTIST” name was branded. It was formed out of a need to secure the right to equal housing opportunities regardless of race, creed, or color. Since its inception, Realtists have participated in various meaningful challenges and legislative improvements, to establish fair housing for all. The Empire Real Estate Board, Inc., and more than 90 other local boards have since joined the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc., as local chapters. Realtists are members of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc., (NAREB) The Realtist organization was founded on a philosophy that even today, is a beacon of excellence, forever guiding and preparing its membership to meeting the challenges of each new tomorrow. Although comprised principally of black real estate professionals, the Realtist organization is an integrated entity open to qualified practitioners of all races who are interested in achieving the ideals of the Realtist theme “Democracy in Housing.” Realtists have made substantial contributions to the cause of democracy by working to provide housing for all without limitations or restrictions. They remain true to the dual mission of serving the underserved and developing creative and effective methods of rendering such services. In this respect, Realtists have become the voice and conscience of the proponents of equal housing opportunities for all citizens. This involves working on civic programs in the political arena as well as in the business world. All of these facets are a part of the Realtist program throughout the nation. This nationwide organization is open to qualified practitioners of all races who have “Democracy in Housing” as their motto. And the Empire Board has played and continues to play a major role in leading NAREB’s legacy over the years. In fact, since NAREB’s inception, five members of the Empire Board have been elected Chief Executive Officer and President of NAREB. These include Mr. Walter “Chief’ Aikens, Mr. Q.V. Williamson, Mr. Otis Thorpe, Mr. Harold A. Dawson, Sr., Mr. Larry Cameron, and Mr. Edward C. London. Mr. Williamson and Mr. London, also subsequently served Chairman of the Board of Directors of NAREB following their terms as President. Read More http://empireboard.sharepoint.com/Pages/aboutus.aspx
