The Art of Distinction Blog by Encore Sotheby's International Realty

57 years ago, the Fair Housing Act was passed on April 11, 1968. At Encore Sotheby’s International Realty, we believe that everyone deserves a fair chance at homeownership. This month, and every month, we celebrate housing equality and honor the legacy of the Fair Housing Act.

The Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in the sale, leasing, or financing of housing based upon race, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. It was originally a follow-up to the Civil Rights Bill passed in 1964 and is widely viewed as the final legislative achievement of the American civil rights era.

The bill has not wholly solved the issue of housing discrimination, though it has been instrumental in promoting equal opportunities. In 1988, Congress passed the follow-up Fair Housing Amendments Act, which expanded the initial bill to prohibit discrimination based on disability or family status. Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and real estate professionals throughout the United States continue this important work.

April is dedicated as National Fair Housing Month and is spent celebrating this landmark civil rights law. Encore Sotheby’s International Realty strives to uphold the value of equality and is proud to reaffirm our commitment to equal-opportunity housing.

Sources:

History.com | U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development | Fair Housing Center for Rights and Research

Encore Sotheby’s International Realty is a boutique residential real estate brokerage providing home sellers and buyers with a luxury level of service in Indiana and beyond. Specializing in the central, northeast and northwest regions of Indiana, the firm operates out of offices in Carmel, Indianapolis, Zionsville and Fort Wayne. Backed by the world-class Sotheby’s International Realty brand, clients benefit from local expertise with global reach. For all of your real estate needs, call 317.660.4444 or visit encoresothebysrealty.com.