Meaning: This quote by Diana Ross speaks to the challenges she faced when trying to buy an apartment in New York City. In just a few sentences, she encapsulates the intersectionality of her identity and the discrimination she encountered in the real estate market.

Diana Ross is a legendary singer, actress, and performer who rose to fame as the lead singer of the Supremes before embarking on a successful solo career. Her success in the entertainment industry did not shield her from the pervasive discrimination faced by many Black individuals, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s when she would have been seeking to purchase a New York City apartment.

The quote reflects the multiple barriers that Diana Ross faced in her quest to secure a home for herself and her children. As a single female, she was already contending with the gender bias that was prevalent in many aspects of society at the time. Additionally, having gone through a divorce and being a mother of three further complicated her search for suitable housing. These factors likely contributed to the challenges she encountered in the real estate market, as single mothers often faced financial and social obstacles when trying to secure housing for their families.

However, the most poignant aspect of the quote is Diana Ross's acknowledgment of the role that her race played in the discrimination she experienced. As a Black woman in show business, she was navigating an industry and a society that were rife with racial prejudice and systemic barriers. The combination of her race, gender, and profession made the already daunting task of finding an apartment in New York City "impossible" in her own words.

It is important to recognize that Diana Ross's experience is not an isolated incident. Discrimination in housing, particularly against people of color, has been well-documented throughout history. Practices such as redlining, which systematically denied mortgage loans and insurance to people based on their race and the racial composition of their neighborhoods, were widespread in the mid-20th century. These discriminatory practices perpetuated housing segregation and contributed to the wealth gap between white and non-white communities.

In recent years, there has been increased attention on the persistence of housing discrimination and the barriers that marginalized communities continue to face when seeking housing. Legal protections against housing discrimination have been established, and advocacy groups work to address inequities in housing access and affordability. However, the challenges that Diana Ross faced in the past still resonate with many individuals today, highlighting the ongoing need for efforts to combat housing discrimination and ensure equal access to housing for all.

In conclusion, Diana Ross's quote provides a powerful glimpse into the intersectional discrimination she encountered when trying to purchase an apartment in New York City. Her experience sheds light on the enduring challenges faced by many individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, in securing safe and affordable housing. By acknowledging the impact of her gender, marital status, profession, and race on her housing search, Diana Ross's words serve as a reminder of the systemic barriers that continue to shape the housing experiences of countless individuals.