Diversity and Inclusion in REAL ESTATE:
“REALTORS® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their client. This obligation to the client is primary, but it does not relieve REALTORS® of their obligation to treat all parties honestly.” Article I, Code of Ethics
The Maine Human Rights Commission (the “Commission”) enforces Maine’s anti-discrimination laws. The Commission is a quasi-independent State agency that was established in 1971.
Protected classes include: race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation (which includes gender identity and expression), physical or mental disability, religion, age, and other categories in certain contexts. The MHRC also prohibits retaliation for asserting MHRC-protected rights. MHRC resources
Which protected classes are covered in which areas? (source: MHRC site)
The classes protected in each area of jurisdiction vary:
Employment: race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, genetic predisposition, protected activity under the Maine Whistleblowers’ Protection Act, and filing a prior claim under the Workers’ Compensation Act.
Housing: Race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, familial status, and receipt of public assistance.
Public accommodations: Race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, and religion. In most lodging, having children is also protected.
Education: Race, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disability.
Extension of credit: Sex, sexual orientation, age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion and marital status.
RESOURCES:
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing Resources
Fairhaven: Fair Housing Simulation, National Association of REALTORS®
Diversity and Inclusion Resources with the National Association of REALTORS®
NAR’s Fair Housing Action Plan
REALTOR® Fair Housing Declaration
Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing (implicit bias videos)
Association of Maine Interpreters and Translations
For more information on Fair Housing: Click Here