The Black Men and Boys Commission in Boston has presented a budget proposal. It aims to promote equity, affordable housing, economic opportunity, health and wellness, and community safety. Six commission subcommittees developed the proposal. It involves various city departments including the Office of Housing, Center for Working Families, and Boston Public Schools. The budget reflects the Commission’s focus on equity and racial justice.
The Commission’s leaders have made several recommendations. These include budget support for the Office of Black Male Advancement (BMA) through an equity study and strategic planning. They also suggest that funds from the national program—My Brother’s Keeper Boston—should be under the Office of Black Male Advancement. Tito Jackson, the Commission Chair, hopes that the budget priorities will be included in this year’s City of Boston Budget.
The budget proposal totals $9.1 million. It shows a comprehensive approach to promoting equity, economic empowerment, and wellness in Boston. A large part of the budget is for technical assistance for Black entrepreneurs within the Office of Economic Opportunity & Inclusion. The housing budget proposal includes a fund for Black developers and down payment assistance for first-generation homebuyers.