Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic condition. It is also illegal to retaliate or discriminate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit.
The EEOC has the authority to investigate charges of discrimination against employers who are covered by the law. Their role in an investigation is to fairly and accurately assess the allegations in the charge and then make a finding. If their investigators find that discrimination has occurred, they will try to settle the charge. If they aren’t successful, they have the authority to file a lawsuit to protect the rights of individuals and the interests of the public. They do not, however, file lawsuits in all cases where they find discrimination.
The EEOC main office is located at the following address:
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
131 M Street, NE
Washington, DC 20507
202-663-4900 / (TTY) 202-663-4494
The EEOC has field offices in 53 communities. Click here to see EEOC field office locations
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
The mission of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD works to strengthen the housing market to bolster the economy and protect consumers; meet the need for quality affordable rental homes: utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination; and transform the way HUD does business.
Federal law prohibits housing discrimination based on your race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. If you have been trying to buy or rent a home or apartment and you believe your rights have been violated, you can file your fair housing complaint online.