HomeLoans Blog

Friday a group of interested people from government, business, and private concerns met to discuss the issues surrounding Fair Housing.

Chattanooga has for the last 3 years held a luncheon to focus attention on the issue of Fair Housing. The luncheon is held in April to coincide with National Fair Housing Month. This year the luncheon commemorated the 40th anniversary of the Fair Housing Legistaltion.

The issues that were disussed included how to make next year's event better. A major concern was to improve turnout and participation. Several organizations were identified that might want to participate. Another concern was how best to reach those who are in need of Fair Housing counsel. Several media sources were identified who might help advertise next year's event.

The group discussed different tools to communicate to those in need what resources are avaible, to provide better access to information for those who might be suffering from discriminatory acts.

Another focus of the discussion was towards seeking ways to help with access to programs that exist to encourage home ownership. Many people are not necessarily denied access because of discrimination, but because of a lack of information and guidance.

The discussion went to the issue of discrimination, which is more of a problem than I had realized, judging from the accounts of many who took part in the meeting. Much of the discrimination had to do with landlord/tenant relations, but much also involved home purchases and home financing.

At the meeting in Chattanooga, we discussed issues of race, gender, disability. Specific mention was made of systematic and subtle discriminations, many of which are committed unaware.

It is an important matter. I was honored to be invited to the meeting, and fortunate to have gained some new insight. 

If you are interested in participating or have a question about Fair Housing in our Chattanooga market, please call the Chattanooga Office of Multicultural Affairs at (423) 643-6706. For more contact information visit their webpage at http://www.chattanooga.gov/3234_3274.htm.