Michigan Fair Housing Centers' Report Informs HUD on LGBT Policy

With funding from the Arcus Foundation, four Michigan fair housing groups set out to investigate housing discrimination based on sexual orientation. Testing by the Michigan Fair Housing Centers uncovered widespread discrimination against same-sex couples. The resulting report, titled “Sexual Orientation and Housing Discrimination in Michigan,” described the testing results, the status of legal protections for same sex couples in the housing market, and strategies for further action. On January 24, 2011, HUD released a proposed rule that would counter such discrimination, titled Equal Access to Housing in HUD Programs—Regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity. It referenced the Michigan Fair Housing report as evidence.