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Monthly News & Updates

April 2024

Issue XXXVVVVVVIII


In 2024, the Fair Housing Act remains an indispensable cornerstone of ensuring equal opportunity and combating discrimination in housing. Enacted in 1968, its significance endures as it continues to protect individuals from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability.


In a world where housing disparities persist and access to safe and affordable housing remains a pressing issue, the Fair Housing Act stands as a beacon of progress and equity. It serves as a powerful tool in the ongoing fight against housing discrimination, promoting diverse and inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.



As societal dynamics evolve and new challenges emerge, the principles upheld by the Fair Housing Act remain as relevant as ever. Its enforcement not only safeguards the rights of individuals but also fosters stronger, more cohesive neighborhoods and contributes to the collective pursuit of justice and equality for all. In 2024 and beyond, the Fair Housing Act continues to be a vital instrument in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.


Director's Note

አማርኛ (Amharic)中文 (Chinese) | Français (French)

한국어 (Korean)| Español (Spanish) |Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)

Dear Residents, Neighbors, and Friends:


Many of you may recognize me, Kenneth Saunders, from my tenure as OHR Director under Mayor Anthony Williams. Now, with great enthusiasm, I'm back as your Interim Director! My dedication to equal opportunity for all remains unwavering, and I'm eager to serve our community once again.


April brings a potent mix of reflection and action. First, we honor Fair Housing Month, commemorating the Fair Housing Act of 1968 – passed soon after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination and built upon the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to protect against housing discrimination based on various factors, such as race, color, religion, sex, disability, and familial status. We've compiled housing rights resources to empower residents on our Fair Housing Resource Portal and we invite you to a virtual panel discussion with housing partners to delve deeper into your rights.


This month also sheds light on Language Access Awareness Month. We celebrate two decades of the DC Language Access Act, a landmark legislation that ensures language is never a barrier to civic life or vital information. Join us for a celebratory event where you can connect with language access leaders who've championed this cause in our city.


Finally, April is Second Chance Month, bringing awareness to the hurdles returning citizens face towards their successful journey towards reintegration. Our city stands with returning citizens through initiatives led by the Mayor's Office on Returning Citizen Affairs, the DC Reentry Action Network (RAN), and the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants. Subscribe to our social media to see how OHR supports residents, communities, and agencies to recognize the importance of reentry and their role in supporting safe and successful reintegration.


As we honor these important observances, let's acknowledge the progress made while recognizing the work ahead. With our collective effort, we will continue advocating for equity and justice, addressing profound disparities, and ensuring everyone understands and exercises their rights.

In Solidarity,

Kenneth Saunders

Interim Director

Trait of the Month:

What's New and Upcoming

Join us on Wednesday, April 24, to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the passage of the DC Language Access Act. The DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) will be honoring DC agencies and Language Access advocates who have contributed to passing, implementing, and working to enhance the Language Access Act of 2004.


The purpose of the Act aims to eliminate linguistic barriers to ensure that all DC residents, workers, and visitors receive equal access to government services while receiving free translation and interpretation services in their respective languages.

Do these questions speak to you? If you want to discuss and answer questions like these, you should join us at the event!

  • What unique activities do you want to see more of during Language Access Awareness Month to raise awareness and actively involve communities in promoting cross-cultural communications in our city?
  • How can community members and advocates actively contribute to the ongoing development of the Language Access Program, ensuring its adaptability to the evolving linguistic and cultural dynamics of the community?


Join the DC Office of Human Rights as we celebrate Fair Housing Month on April 30, 2024 at 6pm with a virtual panel discussion! This year, our focus will be on the recently enacted Sealed Eviction Record law. We’re excited to be joined by special guests from the Rental Housing Commission, Office of the Tenant Advocate, and Housing Counseling Services. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about fair housing rights!

To request a reasonable accommodation or interpretation, please email ajan.brown@dc.gov or call/text (202) 320-0653 by Thursday, April 25.

DC Office of Human Rights | 202.727.4559 | ohr.dc.gov

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