May 12, 2011

We recently asked the Fair Housing Council of Oregon to test Portland’s rental housing market for discrimination. We were alarmed and disappointed by the results, and we’re taking action.

In the Tribune this morning, Nick tells Steve Law the audit “provides a snapshot of pervasive discrimination in rental housing.”

“A citizens committee appointed by Fish is now readying a series of policy recommendations on how the bureau and the housing industry should respond to the study findings and prevent housing  discrimination,” Law writes.

Also this morning, the Oregonian Editorial Board took up the issue, writing that the results show “inexcusable, illegal behavior on the part of housing owners” – behavior that “hobbles our capacity to be among the best.”

Nick is committed to pursuing enforcement action, together with education and outreach to landlords. Working with our government and non-profit partners, we will pursue justice.

“Discrimination ‘haunts’ renters”
Steve Law in the Tribune, May 12

“A rental market rife with racism”
The Oregonian Editorial, May 12