Ho
using discrimination happens when someone refuses to rent, buy or sell a house to someone based on certain stereotypes. While many people immediately think of race or ethnicity when it comes to discrimination, sexual orientation also fits the description. The recognition of sexual orientation in housing discrimination by The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently may mean great things for the LGBT community.
HUD Study on Sexual Orientation Housing Discrimination
Every 10 years, HUD does a study on housing discrimination. Since sexual preference and gender identity is not part of the federal housing law, they have decided to look at them for this year’s study. They will take trained tests and place them in different housing situations and record reactions. It’s projected that the findings will be available next spring.
What This Could Mean for the LGBT Community
Of course, in areas with a large LGBT community, there isn’t as big of an issue with this type of housing discrimination. However, what happens when someone of a certain sexual preference or gender identity different from the owner wants to buy a home or rent but are turned away? With the current law, there isn’t much of a leg to stand on. However, with these findings, there may be enough proof that sexual orientation housing discrimination is alive so that changes can be made and the LGBT community can be supported no matter where they want to live!
Photo: // MUMS – Movimiento de la Diversidad Sexual
