Return to the Land is a controversial development in Arkansas that occupies a 160-acre site. It has gained attention for its policy of only allowing white and heterosexual members to join. According to a recent lawsuit, this violates fair housing and civil rights laws.
The founders maintain that their community does not break any legal statutes. However, a lawsuit is set to challenge their claim. The lawsuit alleges violations stemming from civil rights legislation dating back to 1866.
Last summer, Michelle Walker, a real estate broker from St. Louis, saw a segment on her local news about the development. The feature highlighted a new housing community in the Ozark Mountains, a place she frequented with her family. Offering land at around $1,000 an acre, the pricing was significantly lower than market value.
The caveat was that the community was exclusively for white and heterosexual applicants. Ms. Walker, despite her interest, was denied entry. Consequently, she filed a lawsuit on Wednesday, accusing the community of discrimination.
The development is situated in Ravenden, Arkansas, a small town with about 400 residents. Return to the Land gained significant media coverage after its founders openly discussed their intent to establish a network of whites-only compounds across the country. Their pilot community in Ravenden includes plans for houses, a community center, and agricultural facilities. Specific groups, including Jews, Black people, homosexuals, and anyone with non-European ancestry, face an explicit ban from participating.