Take Bias Complaints to HUD

Monday, April 30, 2007

Re: "Housing discrimination still exists, study says," Page 1, April 24.

Thank you for your excellent article.

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

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 and 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.

Many of those who have experienced discrimination don't report it.

If people encounter housing discrimination, they can come to HUD for assistance by calling our toll-free number, 1 (800) 669-9777, or by visiting our Web site, www.hud.gov/fairhousing.

Thanks again for letting your readers know about such an important issue.

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