Conclusion

Full, fair enforcement of the Fair Housing Act and Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act is an important promise that Congress made to this country, and specifically to people with disabilities, that has not yet been kept. Housing discrimination undermines a fundamental premise on which our free society rests--that every person, regardless of race or national origin and regardless of disability status, should have the opportunity to live in and benefit from a home. Without strong, timely enforcement of fair housing laws, victims of discrimination may be discouraged from seeking an end to discrimination, and discriminators will be emboldened to continue their unlawful practices. Congress's promise can be kept with strong and thoughtful leadership and direction, with resources that are adequate to the task, and with more effective management of enforcement and compliance activities. The need is great; the time is now.