At a time when securing and facilitating the creation of affordable housing options in the City of Tampa is of utmost importance, Mayor Jane Castor has joined the nationwide campaign to proclaim April as Fair Housing Month.
In honor of the Fair Housing Act of 1968, Fair Housing Month is an opportunity to provide education and awareness of equal access to housing and the laws and policies that are in place to protect residents from housing discrimination.
The Tampa Office of Human Rights is responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws within the City of Tampa. Housed under Development & Growth Management's Housing and Community Development division, the Office of Human Rights investigates discrimination complaints related to fair housing, employment, and public accommodations.
"Accustomed to working silently behind the scenes, the Tampa Office of Human Rights deserves a huge shoutout for its tireless commitment to equality,” said Mayor Jane Castor. "And as we tackle one of the most challenging chapters in Tampa’s housing history, equal access is a right we must vehemently enforce and protect.”
The six-person team is led by Human Rights Supervisor Maurice Foster. After a complaint is filed, investigators work with the complainant and other involved parties to gather evidence and ultimately determine if anti-discrimination laws were violated. Though settlements can vary greatly and are not always monetary, in Fiscal Year 2021, the Tampa Office of Human Rights helped victims achieve more than $130,000 in settlements.
Mayor Castor will issue the Fair Housing Month proclamation on Wednesday, April 13, 2022.
Additional Information:
Natalia Verdina
Communications | Development & Economic Opportunity
(813) 624-5625
Natalia.Verdina@tampagov.net