Alright, let's tackle an ugly topic: housing discrimination. From the sunny shores of Miami-Dade County to the broader landscape of Florida, combating housing discrimination is a pressing issue, and understanding the strategies in play is key.
Housing Discrimination
Imagine this: you're on the hunt for your dream house in Continental Park neighborhood in Kendall, FL, but every inquiry hits a snag due to your ethnicity or family status. Sadly, such scenarios aren't rare. Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, disability, or family status persists in our housing market, despite strides forward.
Local Safeguards in Miami-Dade
Fortunately, Miami-Dade County wields a robust set of rules against housing discrimination. These ordinances pack a punch, unequivocally stating that discrimination has no place in our housing landscape. Whether renting, buying, financing, or advertising housing, discriminating based on race, religion, disability, or marital status is a no-go. Landlords refusing tenancy due to kids? That's a red flag.
Miami-Dade County’s local fair housing ordinaces provide protection against discrimination on additional bases: age, ancestry, victimhood of domestic violence, gender expression or identity, marital status, sexual orientation, and source of income. It's a comprehensive shield ensuring fairness.
Moreover, Miami-Dade County bolsters its stance with the Fair Housing and Equal Employment Practices Ordinance (Chapter 11A of the County Code), covering not just housing but employment practices too.
Florida's Fair Housing Laws
Zooming out, Florida's fair housing laws play a superheroic role, covering a broad spectrum akin to federal laws. Discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status is a no-no. Think of it as a protective barrier guarding against housing injustices.
The Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) further fortifies these laws, ensuring compliance and promoting fair housing practices statewide.
Getting Specific: Key Provisions
Now, let's get granular. Say you're a person with a disability eyeing a Dadeland area condo for rent. Florida's fair housing laws dictate that landlords can't turn you down due to necessary modifications like ramps or widened doorways. They must make reasonable accommodations for all.
Taking Action: Enforcement and Remedies
Encounter discrimination? You're not alone. Agencies like the
Miami-Dade Human Rights and The Office of Fair Housing and
Florida Commission on Human Relations are your allies. They'll investigate complaints and dole out consequences, ensuring fairness prevails.
Recognizing Discrimination
Housing discrimination doesn't always come with a glaring sign. It's often masked behind a friendly facade. Missed callbacks, misleading information about availability, or subtle remarks could be red flags.
Fair Housing Allies
When the battle against discrimination seems daunting, remember, you're not alone. These organizations stand ready to assist:
1. Miami-Dade Community Action and Human Services Department (CAHSD)
2. Legal Services of Greater Miami
3. Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR)
4. Housing Opportunities Project for Excellence (HOPE)
5. Americans for Immigrant Justice (AI Justice)
They're your housing justice warriors, equipped to fight for your rights. Don't hesitate to reach out for support!
Housing discrimination is a formidable foe, but Miami-Dade County and Florida refuse to back down. With robust local ordinances, statewide laws, and dedicated enforcement agencies, progress toward an inclusive housing market continues. It's a fight worth fighting, fostering a community where everyone finds their rightful place to call home.
About the Author: Liz Kenneally is a seasoned real estate agent in Miami with extensive experience in the city's dynamic market. Specializing in coveted neighborhoods such as Coral Gables, Dadeland, Continental Park, East Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest, South Miami, and The Falls, Liz ensures smooth transactions for her diverse clientele. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she can be contacted at 786-423-3348 or through the EMAIL AGENT form provided alongside this blog.