Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am a part of the LGBTQIA+ community?

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 represents a cornerstone of civil rights legislation in the United States, prohibiting discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability.

Over the years, this landmark law has expanded to include protections for various marginalized groups, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+. The U.S. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) plays a pivotal role in enforcing these protections, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to housing opportunities.

Recent legislative advancements have further bolstered fair housing protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals, explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in housing programs administered by HUD. These protections not only uphold the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals but also foster environments where everyone can live authentically and without fear of discrimination.

As Pride Month begins, it’s crucial to acknowledge the significant changes in fair housing that benefit the LGBTQIA+ community.

10 Things You Need to Know About LGBTQ+ Advancements under the Fair Housing Act

1. Fair Housing Act Protection: The Fair Housing Act of 1968 prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, nationality, color, creed, gender, disability, family status, and sexual orientation in housing.
2. Prohibited Discrimination: Landlords cannot refuse to rent or sell housing, set different terms or conditions, provide different services or facilities, or advertise with limitations based on these factors.
3. HUD’s Equal Access Rule: HUD’s Equal Access to Housing in HUD Programs final rule ensures eligibility determinations without regard to sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status.
4. Gender Identity Protections: The Equal Access in Accordance with an Individual’s Gender Identity rule ensures equal access to shelters and other facilities based on an individual’s gender identity.
5. Non-Discrimination in Tenant Selection: Housing providers must now treat all individuals, including transgender individuals, in accordance with their gender identity during tenant selection.
6. Definition Expansion: The rules have expanded the definitions of sexual orientation and gender identity to ensure broader protections.
7. 2021 Announcement: HUD announced in 2021 the enforcement of a fair housing provision that explicitly prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
8. Monumental Shift: These protections represent a significant step towards equality and inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community.
9. Addressing Systemic Inequalities: They address housing instability, homelessness, and exclusion from services faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals.
10. Future Outlook: The advancements reflect a commitment to creating safe, affirming housing environments and continuing the journey towards equality for all.

Resources for LGBTQ+ Fair Housing Rights

● HUD Exchange: Provides information on HUD’s Equal Access rules and guidance.
● Lambda Legal: Offers legal advice and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights, including fair housing.
● National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE)**: Provides resources and policy advocacy for transgender and gender non-conforming people.
● The Trevor Project: Offers crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth, including housing support.
● GLAAD: Provides resources and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights and media representation.

● Legal Aid Community Classroom: Resources for fair housing rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, along with videos on each topic can be found by clicking the button below.  

These resources can provide further support and information on fair housing rights for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s essential to continue advocating for inclusive policies and challenging discrimination to ensure that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can access safe and affirming housing.

Written by: Benjamin Butcher, 2024