Housing and Discrimination

Prejudice and Discrimination Choice 1: What can the couple do in this situation? In this situation, there are a several different actions which can be taken. The most notable include: filing a complaint with the department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), suing the homeowner for violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and go to different anti-discrimination / civil liberties organizations. Any one or a combination of these actions, will force the homeowner to reconsider their position.

(Devey, 2007) HUD was given enforcement over these areas as a part of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This makes it illegal for anyone to discriminate against someone in employment, housing and other places of public interest. Those who violate the law are subject to civil litigation and the possibility of having to pay out monetary damages from their actions. HUD's job is to investigate and enforce the law.

If the Sanchez's reported this violation to the HUD, they would investigate and work with the seller to see how they are breaking it. If the homeowner refuses, they can file a claim in federal court seeking out damages and requiring them to comply. This is when they will have to pay fines, legal fees and large awards to the plaintiff. (Devey, 2007) Another option is for the Sanchez's to hire an attorney and sue the homeowner for violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in federal court.

This will lead to the same results as utilizing the HUD. The only difference is they are taking action against the seller directly. Once this happens, is the point the seller will face the possibility of severe monetary damages or they will more than likely settle. In either case, the Sanchez's will prevail and can determine the best avenue for them going forward. (Devey, 2007) A third option is to contact the American Civil Liberties Union. They specialize in investigating and litigating anything involving civil rights.

In this case, they will help to guide the Sanchez's through the legal process. At the same time, they can go to the press about the homeowner and what they are doing. This will increase the pressure they facing, with more people seeing them as a racist. In many situations, this is problematic for the homeowner, as it will negatively affect their standing in the community and business relationships. When this happens, they could lose money as possible buyers walk away from them because of the negative press.

(Devey, 2007) What laws protect homebuyers with regard to discrimination? The Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects homebuyers against discrimination in housing. It says, "Title VII is the policy of the United States to provide, within constitutional limitations, for fair housing throughout the United States. Upon enactment of this subchapter, to -- (A) dwellings owned or operated by the Federal Government;(B) dwellings provided in whole or in part with the aid of loans, advances, grants, or contributions made by the Federal Government.

(C) dwellings provided in whole or in part by loans insured, guaranteed, or otherwise secured by the credit of the Federal Government. (D) dwellings provided by the development or the redevelopment of real property purchased, rented, or otherwise obtained from a State or local public agency receiving Federal financial assistance for slum clearance or urban renewal with respect to such real property under loan or grant contracts." (Devey, 2007) Moreover, the Fair Housing Act of 1968 is further adding to these powers.

This law specifically prohibits discrimination in rentals, sales and financing based upon race, nationality,.