EDITORS: Access the Governor’s proclamation here

(AUSTIN) — Governor Rick Perry today joined the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) in celebrating the 1968 passage of landmark fair housing legislation by observing “National Fair Housing Month.”

Governor Perry also called on Texans to remain committed to advancing fair housing opportunities for all citizens, officially proclaiming April “Fair Housing Month” in Texas.

The Fair Housing Act, established by Congress in 1968, prohibits discrimination in the financing, rent, or sale of any dwelling based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. President Lyndon Johnson signed the bill into law on April 11, 1968, paving the way for the month of April to be recognized as National Fair Housing Month.

Amendments to the Act in 1988 extended protection against housing discrimination based on disability or familial status. The following year, the Texas Legislature solidified its commitment to fair housing with the Texas Fair Housing Act of 1989, which offered protection for apartment renters and homeowners.

“These acts were conceived with a noble goal in mind: affording all Americans equal opportunity to seek the housing of their choice,” noted Governor Perry in his proclamation. “Each year, the month of April is designated for a nationwide campaign to reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of fairness and equality, and to celebrate the advances that have been made over the years. At this time, I encourage all Texans to support fair housing opportunities, so that we can build an even brighter future for the great state we call home.”

“The Department remains committed to the idea that all Texans have a choice when deciding where they live,” stated Tim Irvine, TDHCA Executive Director. “The state has a significant role to play in ensuring housing opportunities are extended to everyone, regardless of class or income, a role we take quite seriously. On the occasion of Fair Housing Month, we rededicate ourselves to expanding housing choice for all residents.”

TDHCA administers programs that help finance the development of affordable rental housing, as well as programs providing homebuyer, home repair, housing development, weatherization, and rent payment assistance serving low to moderate income Texans through a network of local funding recipients.