PRESIDENT'S CORNER: Embracing Fair Housing, Building a Better Tomorrow

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Mahatma Gandhi

This month, the 56th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act is commemorated and it is my hope that we, one day, all look to live in a world where diversity is celebrated, and inclusivity is championed. As real estate agents, we all have the power to shape the future of housing in our communities. So, take a moment and ask yourself, as someone on the front lines of buying and selling homes, what does fair housing mean to you?

Fair housing is not merely a legal obligation or a moral imperative; rather, it is the very essence of creating spaces where every individual can thrive. Fair housing stands as a beacon of hope and a cornerstone of equality upon which vibrant communities are built regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability or familial status.

We Realtors are afforded a role that is somewhat akin to being the “guardians” of the key to people's dreams—their homes. In your hands lies not only the ability to help your clients buy or sell properties, but the unique opportunity to shape communities and champion equality. And, as ambassadors of the real estate industry, we are positioned to uphold this principle and ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, has equal access to housing opportunities.

At its core, fair housing embodies the fundamental principle that everyone deserves access to safe, affordable, and discrimination-free housing. It is both a promise of opportunity and a commitment to dismantling barriers. However, achieving fair housing is not without its challenges. Whether discrimination, both overt and subtle, manifests as systemic racism, unequal access to resources, or outright denial of housing opportunities, the battle for fair housing is far from over.

I, for one, do look forward to the future and can envision a world where fair housing is not just a lofty ideal. A world where every person, regardless of their background or circumstances, can have a place to call home. As real estate professionals, I hope we can all recognize that when one of us is denied fair housing, we are all diminished, and when one of us succeeds, we all benefit.