Secretary Martinez and representatives from four national real estate associations yesterday kicked-off Fair Housing Month by signing a Memorandum of Understanding that outlines the actions each organization pledges to take to help eliminate housing discrimination.

"Today we are joining forces with the real estate industry to build on our shared commitment to enforcing the fair housing laws and educating individuals of their rights," said Martinez.

The signing ceremony was held to coincide with the beginning of Fair Housing Month and to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the signing of the Fair Housing Act by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Joining the Secretary at the signing was Carolyn Y. Peoples, Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. Other participants included John Yen Wong, chairman, National Association of Asian American Real Estate Professionals; Gary E. Acosta, chairman and CEO, National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals; Edward C. London, president and CEO, National Association of Real Estate Brokers; and Catherine B. Whatley, president, National Association of Realtors. Lynda Johnson Robb, daughter of President Johnson, also participated in the event.