We seldom talk about familial status discrimination iyet it happens often. Our latest “Knowing More” video tells John’s stroy. He’s a father who feels the property manager is discriminating against his children in their housing community. His story is based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s “Examples of Housing Discrimination.” You can watch the video below and then learn more about familial discrimination.

What is Familial Status Discrimination?

Familial status discrimination occurs when housing policies or practices unfairly limit or exclude families with children from enjoying their full housing rights. The violations include everything from restrictions on using common facilities to different rental terms.

Legal Protections Against Discrimination

The Fair Housing Act includes protections against discrimination based on familial status. The law guarantees equal access to housing and amenities for families with children. The Act helps promote welcoming communities.

Familial status protects:

• families with children under the age of 18,
• pregnant persons,
• anyone in the process of securing legal custody of a minor child (including adoptive or foster parents), and
• anyone with written permission of the parent or legal guardian

Challenging Familial Discrimination

You can fight this kind of discrimination. If you suspect you’ve been a victim:

• Document your experiences.
• Seek advice from a fair housing advocate or legal professional.
• File a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Understanding and recognizing steering is the first step towards combating this form of discrimination.

HUD’s Fair Housing and EO works to eliminate housing discrimination and promote economic opportunity by leading the nation in the enforcement, administration, development, and public understanding of federal fair housing policies and laws.

Below are some important links related to Fair Housing:

• Understanding the Fair Housing Act
• Knowing More Videos for Residents
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO)
• File a Fair Housing Complaint
• Fair Housing Rights and Obligations
• FHEO Programs and Initiatives
• Fair Housing Resources
• Sexual Harassment Prevention