DiverseU Educates Campus Community on Barriers to Suitable Housing

Of the many barriers to finding suitable housing, discrimination based upon race, class, age, and sexual orientation or gender identity is one of the most pressing. Studies show, for instance, that homelessness among LGBTQ Youth is well above the national average. And housing discrimination based upon race has a long and sordid history in this country. Additionally, landlords routinely discriminate against applicants based upon age and/or appearance instead of specifically vetting individuals to determine if they have a good renter and/or credit history and have consistently demonstrated an ability to pay their bills on time.

The resources available to challenge and disrupt these trends and tendencies are numerous but not always visible and apparent to those in need of advocacy or education. Luckily, the University of Montana hosts a symposium this fall designed to educate students, staff, and faculty on the realities of living in a diverse society and the obligations and possibilities of confronting discrimination head-on.

From November 5th through the 7th, members of the campus community are invited to attend the 14th Annual Diversity Symposium to learn about how discrimination affects students on campus and what can be done to construct a more inclusive campus culture.

In addition to two keynote speakers, 40 break-off sessions are scheduled to give students and faculty in-depth instruction on how to respond to issues related to diversity and/or discrimination. Hopefully, the three-day symposium will empower members of the campus community to name and address problems associated with discrimination.

Sessions that we believe will be of particular importance to the clients we serve include Non-Discrimination Laws Protecting People in Montana, Students Are People First, and a Tour of the UM Food Pantry. You can RSVP ahead of time on our Facebook page.

Watch and learn: fair housing and discrimination

At the ASUM Renter Center, we are committed to tackling the issue of discrimination head-on and encourage members of the campus community to contact our agency if discrimination is preventing them or someone they know from being able to access suitable and affordable housing. We can educate visitors on the finer points of landlord/tenant lease law as it exists in Montana and refer them to ASUM Legal Services if they need legal representation. No one should be deprived of a right to suitable and affordable housing due to ignorance and prejudice. Speak out if you encounter these forms of injustice and don’t hesitate to reach out to our agency if you are in need of help.