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Fair Housing Month
A letter to the editor by Commisssioner Watson Haynes of St. Petersburg.
When people think of housing discrimination, their minds may drift to scenarios such as a black man who is told that a unit is no longer available once the property manager views the color of his skin or a disabled woman who is told that her guide dog violates the complex’s “no pets” policy.
However, there is another group that faces discrimination as well, but is often forgotten: parents, grandparents and (or) guardians. Under the Fair Housing Act, a person cannot be denied housing based on their familial status. This means, it is illegal for property owners to discourage or flat out refuse housing to someone who is pregnant or has children under the age of 18.
April is Fair Housing Month, and 2009 marks the 40th anniversary of the Florida Commission on Human Relations. We encourage everyone to spend this month of reflection and celebration to learn their housing rights under state and federal civil rights laws. When individuals arm themselves with information, they are able to recognize unfair housing practices and they are equipped with the knowledge needed to end them. Join us in working toward a better Florida for all who live and work here!
