The Importance of the Fair Housing Act of 1968

The history of the Fair Housing Act of 1968 is a remarkable example of the culmination of years of hard work and activism. The Act signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on April 11, 1968, is part of American Civil Rights legislation and is closely associated with the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It is crucial to remember that this law came into being after many years of systemic discrimination and segregation, which affected the African American community in particular.

Historical Context

The United States saw a rise in racial discrimination following World War II. Real estate agents and property owners would refuse to rent or sell property to African Americans and other minorities, often through discriminatory practices such as “redlining”. This practice kept minorities from living in areas of “high value,” depriving them of any opportunity to accumulate wealth or live in decent homes. Even though the Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, and sex, housing discrimination remained pervasive and persisted for years afterward.

The Making of the Fair Housing Act

The making of the Fair Housing Act involved years of activism and lobbying by African American leaders, civil rights organizations, and sympathetic lawmakers. The assassination of one of these leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on April 4, 1968, spurred Congress and the President into action. To honor the legacy of Dr. King, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Fair Housing Act into law just one week after Dr. King’s death. The new law aimed to ensure that fair housing opportunities in the United States were available to everyone regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability status.

The Importance of the Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act has been significant in changing the landscape of America. It has opened up housing opportunities for protected groups and that is undoubtedly among the most important elements of the civil rights movement. The Act offers protection against illegal discrimination in all aspects of the housing market, including renting, selling, and financing homes. The Act made residential discrimination illegal in all aspects of the residential real estate market, which was a revolutionary step. This law paved the way for integration and created opportunities for diverse nationalities, races, and cultures to live together.

The passage of the Fair Housing Act was a monumental step in the fight against discrimination, but housing discrimination is not a thing of the past. It is important to recognize that many people still face discrimination in the housing sector based on their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, and sexual orientation. However, with knowledge of fair housing laws and regulations, we can protect our communities and help create a better future for all.

In conclusion, the Fair Housing Act of 1968 was a significant milestone in the quest for equality. It serves as a reminder that progress can be made even when faced with adversity and that we must continue to fight for a more just society. The Act has made remarkable contributions in creating change in American society to limit discrimination, promote fair housing opportunities, and continue the work of our civil rights and human rights activists throughout history.