Fair housing is more important today than ever before and reflects the evolving societal and economic landscape that we find ourselves living in.

Let’s start with DEI. I know you the reader are thinking, “here we go again”, but, now more than ever Diversity, Inclusion, and especially EQUITY, are essential to today’s society. As communities become more diverse (not just White v. Black/Brown) but rather a multitude of multicultural backgrounds, gender and sexuality, to name a few, the importance of fair housing escalates. Ensuring equal access to housing opportunities regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability, or familial status promotes a more inclusive and equitable society. As I am known to say, “‘a rising tide lifts all boats’.”

While there are laws in place to prevent housing discrimination, there is an ongoing need to enforce and strengthen these regulations. Fair housing laws help protect individuals and groups from discriminatory practices and promote equal opportunities for all in the housing market. Unfortunately, there are many ways in which those who aren’t interested or lack a vested interest in fairness and equality, have gotten more creative in their hidden biases. They have created seemingly “legal” shields, but let’s not kid ourselves: the tropes and stereotypes linger on. As a REALTOR® and President of Illinois REALTORS®, it is my hope that we will be successful removing all vestiges of discrimination such as discriminatory appraisals and unlawful restrictive covenants.

Access to fair housing is closely linked to economic stability in our local communities, statewide and on a large national scale. After all, don’t we all crave the same basics? Housing is a fundamental aspect of an individual’s well-being, and discrimination in housing can contribute to economic disparities among different groups, hindering overall economic stability causing rifts in all communities, cities, and mindsets.

Illinois REALTORS® President Matt Silver took over hosting duties of the Illinois REALTORS® Podcast for Fair Housing Month

As we have seen nationally and here in Illinois, there is a woeful lack of housing, especially workforce housing. We know there is a higher demand for housing in all price points too. Pre-pandemic we were 1.5 million units short and now we are close to 6 million units in deficit. It becomes crucial to ensure that everyone has fair and equal access to housing opportunities, preventing the concentration of certain groups in specific neighborhoods, and promoting diverse and thriving communities. When America was in expansion and growth mode and immigration was at its peak (seemingly), neighborhoods were gentrified and built based upon living with like kind cultures – Italians, Irish, Polish etc., we see remnants of this when we frequent Little Italy, Chinatown or Koreatown, however, as we have melded into an enriching and often diverse population, the ability to live side by side is a right.

Everyone deserves the ability and opportunity to share in the experience of the American Dream! Exposure to differing cultures, faces, and religions, not only ensures acceptance and understanding, but rather it provides a basis to remove the fear of the unknown and will help provide educational opportunities and the health and welfare of these groups lending stability to all neighborhoods!

Increased awareness of social justice issues, coupled with advocacy efforts, has put a spotlight on the importance of fair housing. This has led to an intensified call for public policy changes and increased examination of discriminatory practices. No longer should the public stand for HATRED of any groups, let alone those we are too familiar with, who have been targeted for too long. We have to do better, and we must be better! We must be more intentional in our actions and our acceptance. America stood as a beacon and to this day still shines brightly.

It is imperative that we get out of our routine comfort zones and face the inevitable and welcome changes coming our way that are LONG overdue. Let’s live each day in harmony, fostering understanding and acceptance of communities and understanding.

Fair housing is essential starting today to address the shifting demographics, uphold legal and ethical principles, and promote social, economic, and health EQUITY. It is the centerpiece in building inclusive and resilient communities now and for the future generations. Please join me in celebrating Fair Housing Month and make every effort to be diverse, inclusive and provide equitable opportunities to all!

About the writer: Matt Silver is the 2024 Illinois REALTORS® President.