President Bush, Attorney General John Ashcroft and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Mel Martinez marked the 35th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act on Tuesday, April 15, by signing a proclamation urging all Americans to advance fair housing opportunities across the nation. Joining the President and Cabinet Secretaries at the White House was Secretary Martinez's Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, Carolyn Peoples.

The Fair Housing Act, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968, prohibits discrimination in the financing, rental or sale of any dwelling based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Amendments to the Act in 1988 extended its coverage to prohibit discrimination based on disability or familial status.

"The Bush Administration is committed to ensuring that this nation's dedication to fair housing remains as strong today as it was 35 years ago," the Secretary said. "As an immigrant myself, I have a profound appreciation for this country's tradition of being compassionate and welcoming to all people. America benefits greatly from its diversity."

To raise awareness of the importance of fair housing, President Bush declared April "Fair Housing Month." During the month, HUD will hold outreach activities to educate consumers and members of the housing industry about the Fair Housing Act and its safeguards.

Read the full announcement and learn more about the steps the President and his Administration are taking to fight housing discrimination.

A high-resolution photograph of the signing ceremony will be made available on the Secretary's "At Work" page.

Learn more about HUD's Fair Housing Month activities or report housing discrimination on HUD's website (you also may telephone 1 (800) 669-9777, or TTY at 1 (800) 927-9275).