In greater Denver, American Indians and Alaska Natives experience disparities in all forms of housing, according to a 2022 assessment. On average, they are four times more likely to experience homelessness and face high rates of rental housing discrimination. That, on top of centuries of forced migration and harmful federal policies, has led to immense housing inequities. 

This is why groups like Native American Housing Circle are so essential. The Native-led grassroots coalition of provider organizations connects Denver’s incredibly diverse Native population with vital resources. It’s even part of an effort to build an affordable housing development for Native people in Denver, one of the first of its kind in metro Denver. 

In this episode of The Buildout, we meet Lucille Echohawk, co-founder of the Native American Housing Circle, and learn about the collaborative efforts they’ve employed to combat housing instability among Native people in the metro. 

Resources from this episode: 

• Learn more about Native American Housing Circle  
• Read the 2022 assessment on Denver Native American housing needs 
• Watch RMPBS’ documentary "Urban Rez" 
• Learn more about Brothers Redevelopment, Inc. and Colorado Housing Connects 
• Listen to American Public Media’s documentary “Uprooted,” about urban relocation 
• Watch “Virtual Moving History – Bernie Whitebear: A Modern Warrior” 

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