April is fair housing month

April is Fair Housing Month!
April marks Fair Housing Month, a time to reflect on the importance of equal access to housing and to recommit ourselves to creating communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. A great way you can support AHWs commitment to Fair housing is by donating to our Spring Appeal campaign linked here.

Why Fair Housing Month Matters
Fair Housing Month commemorates the passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1968, also known as VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968. This prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status. This law exists on the federal level which all states must adhere to, but many states have specific state laws that expand housing protections. The state of Vermont has expanded this law to include protections against discrimination based on:

• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity & expression
• Marital status
• Age
• Ancestry/place of birth
• Recipients of public assistance (housing vouchers)
• HIV status
• Immigration status
• Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking
• Disability status

While this law laid a critical foundation for equity for which Vermont has expanded on, the work is far from finished. Across the country and within our own communities, barriers to fair housing still exist. These challenges may take the form of unequal access to credit, discriminatory rental practices, or systemic inequities that limit housing opportunities for marginalized groups - thus the importance for Fair Housing Month to raise awareness. 

Opportunities to learn about Fair Housing history and practices this month!
At Addison Housing Works, we are dedicated to advancing housing equity through advocacy, education, and direct support. We would like to share several local and state opportunities to learn about and support fair housing in Vermont this month. 

1. Please visit the Fair Housing VT event calendar to view a comprehensive list of events both virtual and in person events throughout Vermont this April.
2. Addison County specific events:
   1. CVOEO Landlords of Addison County event April 22nd 5:30 – 7:30 PM at 50 Industrial Way - register here
   2. Ramen Day Film Screening and Panel Discussion on April 28th 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Marquis Theatre - register here

Fair Housing Month is an opportunity to reflect, but also to act. Together, we can build communities where access to housing is not determined by who you are, but supported by a shared commitment to fairness and dignity. At Addison Housing Works, we remain committed to this mission—not just in April, but every day of the year.

If you have questions about fair housing or need assistance, contact Addison Housing Works to learn more about available resources and support. Phone: (802)877-2626 Email: [email protected]