Attorney General Jay Jones recognized Fair Housing Month on April 9, highlighting the history of the Fair Housing Act and the continuing need for equal housing opportunities in Virginia.
Fair Housing Month marks an important time to reflect on progress made against discrimination in housing. The observance draws attention to both historic achievements and current challenges in ensuring fair access to homes for all Virginians.
Jones said, “Passage of the Fair Housing Act occurred at a time when our communities were fraught with blatant discrimination. The voices and dreams of hardworking Americans were ignored. In a divisive, explosive time in our country’s history, Black communities and their allies did not back down in their fight for equality. Today, Virginians still see the chasms in access to resources, investment, and community assets left behind by these inequitable systems. The responsibility to continue this fight and guard these protections is one that my office is proud to accept.”
Virginia Fair Housing Director Liz Hayes also spoke about the importance of fair housing protections: “As we mark the 54th anniversary of the Virginia Fair Housing Law, we’re reminded that housing provides the foundation for our families, communities, and futures. This April, we celebrate the progress we’ve made with the Office of the Attorney General to enforce the law and reaffirm our commitment to fair, equitable housing opportunities for all in Virginia.”
The federal Fair Housing Act was passed after Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination as part of efforts against segregation. Four years later, Virginia enacted its own law expanding these protections across the state.
The Attorney General’s office supports civil rights enforcement programs throughout Virginia according to its official website. It also provides legal counsel for state agencies while promoting public safety and defending constitutional rights as detailed online. Jason Miyares is currently listed as serving as Virginia’s 48th Attorney General according to official information.
The Attorney General addresses issues such as human trafficking and domestic violence through legal advocacy according to its website, offers consumer protection resources related to identity theft or fraud reporting as noted online, and serves residents across all parts of Virginia according to official statements.
The commemoration concludes with an invitation from officials encouraging anyone experiencing discrimination or seeking information about their rights under fair housing laws to contact relevant offices.
