HUD Creates Fair Housing Ad

The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced it has launched a national public service announcement campaign that will educate the public, especially minorities, about their rights under the lending provisions of the federal Fair Housing Act. The centerpiece of the bilingual campaign is a television PSA featuring actor Dennis Haysbert, who is best known for his role as President Palmer in the television series "24." The campaign, which is being administered by Pacific News Service, also includes radio PSAs and newspaper ads. In addition, the campaign will include a series of fair lending forums designed to inform the general public about HUD resources and programs that can assist in eradicating unfair and discriminatory lending practices. "HUD studies confirm that African Americans and Hispanics trying to become homeowners are often given less information about loan terms, are quoted higher rates and fees, and are sometimes discouraged from applying for loans," said Kim Kendrick, assistant secretary for fair housing and equal opportunity. "Hopefully, this compelling campaign will empower existing and prospective minority homeowners to report these incidents so that they can receive help."