Good time to reflect on fair housing

By Dee Miller

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April is the anniversary month of the federal Fair Housing Act of 1968. During the history of our country, many people have been restricted from buying or renting properties simply because they

are different.

Recently, I read a very disturbing blog based on a research paper focusing on the negative effects that home foreclosure has on our children. Our behavior, emotions and overall mental state can all be influenced by our home.

The Fair Housing Law passed in 1968 prohibits discrimination in the sale, lease or rental of housing or making housing unavailable because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

The Iowa Civil Rights Act also includes gender identity and mental disability. The City of Iowa City prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age, sex, marital status, disability, religion, sexual orientation, the presence or absence of dependents or a public assistance source of income (such as AFDC or low-income rental assistance).

Despite the fact that it has been 44 years since the passing of the Fair Housing law and the advance in the education and understanding of diversity, discrimination in housing still exists. Iowa City has undertaken numerous actions to address and resolve fair housing issues.

Stop focusing on the differences and look at people for who they are inside. Value diversity, broaden your social network, get to know your neighbors, be tolerant and respect those who are different and try to understand these differences.

Focus on the benefits of multicultural neighborhoods. Realize how they can provide opportunities for learning about and interacting with all

kinds of people. Our children, by living in a diverse community, will be better people. They will be prepared for

the future and the cultural mix in the real world.

Realtors across Iowa and the nation work each day to support the Fair Housing Act. Fair housing is not just a

good practice, it is the law!

Dee Miller is chair of Fair Housing Ambassadors, Iowa City Area Association of Realtors. Comments: deemiller@iowarealty.com