The 50th Anniversary of Fair Housing was celebrated across California and nationwide. The largest event in California marking this historic April 11th date was hosted by the Beverly Hills/Greater Los Angeles Association of REALTORS®.
Hundreds of REALTORS® from all over Los Angeles County gathered at the Proud Bird (a historically significant location in its own right) to celebrate the Civil Rights gains made by the African-American community and other communities of color based on the implementation of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. Sex and religious affiliation as well. Subsequently other minority communities including those with disabilities were included in the Fair Housing Act protections (while the LGBT community is still excluded).
Our REALTOR® and multicultural expert panels shed light on barriers that minority communities faced and continue to face. Many knowingly nodded their heads in agreement, while others looked completely stunned by new information. The result was a deeper understanding of our shared humanity and the efforts needed to achieve equality.
Attendees listened intently to the message from Reverend “J” Edgar Boyd, Pastor of the First AME Church of Los Angeles. His message that equality was worth fighting for (even when the odds are long) was received heartily within the exposition hall. He left the venue to a standing ovation.
The BH/GLAAR Cultural Diversity and Commercial Committee were on hand promoting REALTOR® involvement to members while Real Estate Service Partners were showing members the benefits of their services.
It was an inspirational day, and it wouldn’t have been possible without our co-hosts* and national cultural diversity organization partners.**
*Downey Association of REALTORS®, Malibu Association of REALTORS®, Palos Verdes Peninsula Association of REALTORS®, Rancho Southeast Association of REATORS®, South Bay Association of REALTORS®, Southland Regional Association of REALTORS®, and the Southwest Association of REALTORS®.
** AREAA, PREPA, NAHREP, Consolidated Board of REALTISTS, and NAGLREP.
