Housing Discrimination

Los Angeles Times

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Re: "New Orleans' blacks see rental block," April 25.

It's unfortunate that, in 2007, people are still being discriminated against when it comes to securing and maintaining housing.

In my role in the Department of Housing and Urban Development, I am responsible for enforcing the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental and financing of dwellings based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability. In addition to HUD's enforcement activities, compelling stories like these assist our education and outreach efforts by informing the public about their fair housing rights.

Regrettably, we still see too many instances of housing discrimination based on race. Last year, we received 4,000 race-based discrimination complaints nationwide.

Our studies have found that at least 20% of those who have experienced discrimination don't report it. It is important that people know that, if they encounter housing discrimination based on race, HUD is ready to help them file a complaint.

Victims may call (800) 669-9777 or visit our website, http://www.hud.gov/fairhousing.

Kim Kendrick
Assistant Secretary
Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Department
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Washington