On April 24, 2009, the Florida Senate adopted SR 944 (Senator Rudy Garcia-sponsor) and recently, the Florida House of Representatives adopted HR 9079 (Representative Luis Garcia-sponsor), which recognized April as Fair Housing Month and acknowledged that housing discrimination continues to plague Florida’s communities. The resolutions issue a call for action and encourage community leaders, public officials and citizens to come together to work to ensure fair housing for all.
“Unfortunately, there are many families in Florida being victimized by housing discrimination,” said Derick Daniel, Executive Director. “We are so pleased that the House and Senate have adopted these resolutions to shine a light on this important issue. Housing discrimination not only affects families, but it also affects communities and our state as a whole. During these tough times, any unnecessary and unjust hurdles to home buying or renting must be eliminated.”
The Florida Commission on Human Relations, established in 1969, is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. The purpose of these laws is to protect the people of Florida from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status or familial status. Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. Through education, outreach and partnerships, the Commission works to prevent discrimination and foster mutual understanding in communities statewide.
For more information visit http://fchr.state.fl.us
