The Legal Aid Society of Hawaii recently secured a federal grant to investigate claims of housing discrimination. These services are free of charge and available statewide, with no restrictions based on household income. A key component of the project will be the use of fair housing "testing", a method of investigation in which investigators pose as prospective customers in a housing transaction. This can include buying or renting a home as well as applying for a loan or insurance for housing.

If the investigators are treated differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, age, ancestry, marital status, or infection with HIV, the housing providers could face federal lawsuits or adjudication by state or federal enforcement agencies.

"This is a powerful tool for enforcing civil rights," said Jason Kanda, an investigator for the

project. ""We have the means now to ensure that people don’t lose out on housing opportunities because housing providers are discriminating against them illegally."

Persons with fair housing complaints or questions regarding their rights under federal and state fair housing laws can call 527-8024 (Oahu) or toll-free 1-866-527-FAIR (neighbor islands).

Contact:   Natalie Asturi
Phone:     (808) 527-8004
E-mail:    naastur@lashaw.org