The Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 protects people from discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. In addition, the Minnesota Human Rights Act reflects the federally protected classes and protects people from discrimination based on sexual or affectional orientation, marital status, creed, or status with regard to receipt of public assistance. These Acts make it illegal to discriminate against people when they are renting or buying a home, getting a mortgage, seeking housing assistance, or engaging in other housing-related activities. For more information about these Acts follow the links provided below:

How to File a Complaint

If you suspect you have been discriminated against you may file an online complaint or contact:

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) | Phone: 1-800-669-9777 or TTY: 1-800-927-9275

Enforces national fair housing laws and provides policy and programs that address a variety of housing needs across the income spectrum.

Minnesota Department of Human Rights | Phone 651-539-1100 or TTY: 1-800-627-3529

Enforces the Minnesota Human Rights Act and is dedicated to upholding the civil rights of Minnesotans.

Housing Justice Center | Phone: 612-807-1139

Provides legislative advocacy to preserve and expand affordable housing for low-income individuals and families.

Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS) | Phone: 1-877-696-6529

Provides free legal help to low-income people in critical civil matters related to their basic needs of maintaining freedom from hunger, homelessness, sickness, and abuse.

HOME Line | Phone: 612-728-5767

Provides free or low-cost legal help related to organizing, educating, and advocating for tenant rights.

Learn Your Rights

Click here for videos to help inform you of your rights under fair housing laws. The videos cover topics like rental history, background checks, and bad credit. Thanks to our friends at HousingLink for developing these videos, for which the Washington County CDA provided financial support.

How We Support Equity

The CDA is dedicated to removing barriers so that all people may have the opportunity to achieve decent, safe, and affordable housing. To support our efforts the CDA worked in collaboration with the Twin Cities Fair Housing Implementation Council and other metropolitan cities and counties to analyze and identify barriers to fair housing choice and implement meaningful strategies for members of historically marginalized groups protected from discrimination by the federal Fair Housing Act. For the full report, CDA adopted goals, and policy follow the links provided below: