4 7 08 Fair Housing Month 40th Proclamation
PROCLAMATION
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In recognition of the fact that April 2008 marks the 40 anniversary of the signing of the Fair Housing Act,
Senator Tom Harkin read the following statement into the Congressional Record on March 13, 2008:
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“Mr. President, April 11, 2008, marks the 40 anniversary of the enactment of the Fair Housing Act, Title VIII of
the Civil Rights Act of 1968. Signed into law just 1 week after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,
the bill made discrimination in the sale and rental of housing illegal based on a person’s race, color, religion,
sex, or national origin. It was a big step towards eliminating discrimination in housing and to provide fair
housing.
Dr. King’s inspiring message of equal opportunity for every person and the commitment to change views and
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attitudes is embodied in the Fair Housing Act. As we celebrate the 40 anniversary of this historic legislation,
we must reaffirm our commitment to ensure that every person has equal access to housing.
I want to commend the Iowa Civil Rights Commission and the 25 local commissions across Iowa for their
advocacy of housing opportunities for all of our citizens. These commission provide comprehensive
community education, public outreach, investigation, mediation, and training to foster fair housing by enforcing
local, State, and Federal fair housing laws.
I would encourage my fellow Members of Congress to support a commitment to fair housing by strengthening
laws against predatory lending practices, racial segregation, and restoring rights for persons with disabilities
under the ADA.
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On this 40 anniversary, we can celebrate many victories, but, unfortunately, housing discrimination still
occurs. We still have many battles to be fought in our march towards a future where there is justice and
housing opportunities for all Americans.”
NOW THEREFORE, I, ROY D. BUOL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA, ON BEHALF OF THE
CITY COUNCIL, STAFF AND RESIDENTS OF DUBUQUE, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM APRIL 2008, AS
FAIR HOUSING MONTH
IN THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA, AND URGE RESIDENTS TO SUPPORT AND ENDORSE THE
PRACTICE AND POLICY OF FAIR HOUSING AND REAFFIRM THE COMMITMENT TO FAIR HOUSING
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand
and caused the Great Seal of the City of Dubuque to be
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affixed this 7 day of April, 2008.
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Roy D. Buol, Mayor
Attest:
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Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk
2008: Kelly Larson