ERASE Racism Welcomes New Board Member, Martin Schwartz

ERASE Racism is delighted to welcome long-time supporter Martin “Marty” Schwartz to its Board of Directors.   As the former Executive Director of the Annie E. Casey Foundation and the current Vice President of the Hempstead Boys and Girls Club, Marty brings a deep understanding of social problems and what is needed to create change.  

When asked about how his role on the Board will differ from his involvement with the organization in the past, Marty responded, “The difference is in one case you’re donating money;  being on the Board you’re responsible for how it’s used.”  Elaine Gross, president of ERASE Racism, agreed, “Board members donate money, but they also have ongoing responsibility for evaluating how the money is spent, what activities the organization undertakes and the impact of those actions, etc. Being on the board is an important, challenging and ongoing responsibility,” she added, “Therefore, ERASE Racism takes the process of selecting its Board members very seriously and we are so happy that Marty has accepted our invitation.”

According to Marty, the most important issues that ERASE Racism is currently working on are creating diversified affordable housing and changing negative sentiments about affordable housing through its research and advocacy.  In an interview earlier this year, Marty was asked about why he supports the organization’s efforts to end racial segregation; he explained, "I see ERASE Racism as the go-to organization...taking a position of fairness for blacks, Hispanics and really all people.  From my standpoint, ERASE Racism probably has the clearest vision of where to go with this, so I see it as a major factor in pulling together the constituency.  I don't see another group that is more focused on this."

To read Marty’s full bio click here.