Pride and Protection: Your Housing Rights as an LGBTQ+ Individual

As we welcome another sunny and warm Pride Month this June, we thought it was about time we highlighted a monumental stride in LGBTQ+ rights: the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals under the protected class of gender by HUD. This update marks a victory for fair housing and civil rights, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are granted equal housing opportunities and work protections.

Understanding The Inclusion

In February 2021, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) officially announced that the Fair Housing Act's prohibition on sex discrimination includes discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Supreme Court's ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County, which concluded that under the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on sex, also applies to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote the majority opinion, stating that discriminating against an individual for being gay or transgender inherently involves treating them differently because of their sex.

What This Means for LGBTQ+ Individuals

For LGBTQ+ individuals, this expansion of protections means that they can now seek reparation if they face discrimination in buying or renting a home, securing a mortgage, or any other housing-related services. This protection is crucial as studies have shown that LGBTQ+ individuals often face higher rates of discrimination and homelessness compared to their heterosexual counterparts.

Marking a Milestone for Equality: Let's Celebrate

HUD's decision to include LGBTQ+ individuals under the Fair Housing Act is not just a legal amendment; it's a powerful statement that everyone is worthy of dignity and respect regardless of gender identity or sexuality. This policy shift helps dismantle systemic intolerance and promotes a more inclusive society where all individuals may have the opportunity to live without fear of discrimination. This Pride Month, let's honor this victory for LGBTQ+ rights and continue to advocate for equality and justice. We proudly support and uphold these protections, ensuring that everyone in our community can enjoy their right to fair housing. If you or someone you know has experienced housing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, please get in touch with us by clicking the contact button below.

Local Arizona LGBTQIA Resources

One-n-Ten: https://onenten.org/ 
IG: @onentenphx

Southern AZ Gender Alliance: https://linktr.ee/sagatucson
IG: @sagatucson

Trans Queer Pueblo (español): https://www.tqpueblo.org/
IG: @tqpueblo 

GLSEN AZ: https://www.glsenarizona.org/
IG: glsenarizona

AZ TYPO: https://www.aztypo.com/
IG: @aztypo_