April is Fair Housing Month!
Join us as we host two fair housing workshops this month to celebrate Fair Housing Month. We will be covering fair housing basics, what discrimination can sometimes look like and some things to be on the lookout for while searching for a home. Under the Human Rights Act of 1977, DC's anti-discrimination legislation, it is illegal for housing providers to discriminate against someone based on 18 protected traits. It is important that people understand their rights so they feel empowered when making decisions, especially when it comes to something as important as housing. We will also discuss some COVID-19 housing resources. Reserve your spot by clicking the links below.


April Awareness Month Message

April is a busy but special month at OHR. This year, we will highlight several topics over the course of the month including fair housing, language access, sexual assault awareness and street harassment prevention.

ICYMI, OHR Acting Director MΓ³nica Palacio released a Facebook/Instagram Live video highlighting the national observances this April. Check it out by clicking the image or clicking here. Stay in the loop with our social media posts for more on trainings and initiatives we will introduce this month!


Brief History of Fair Housing
On April 11, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (the Act), fueled by the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and resulting unrest just seven days prior. Specifically, the Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental and financing of a home based on race, religion and national origin. Sex was later added in a 1974 amendment to the Act. Disability and family status were added in a 1988 amendment. Since the signing of the Act, states and cities around the country began to recognize and celebrate April as Fair Housing Month.

Cities and states also have the power to expand civil protections. The District for example have 18 protected traits covered under housing. Be sure to learn more about DC's housing protections by attending one of the Fair Housing workshops OHR is hosting this month.
Throwback OHR Fair Housing Presentation

Check out this throwback video of former community outreach coordinator Teresa Rainey giving a fair housing presentation.

If you'd liked to learn more about OHR's outreach and engagement efforts or to request a training, please visit our Know Your Rights page.
DC Office of Human Rights | 202.727.4559 | ohr.dc.gov
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