Relman Colfax PLLC

The post-election atmosphere is undeniably charged with uncertainty. At Relman Colfax, we recognize the profound concerns that accompany another Trump administration and its potential impact on #civilrights. This special edition newsletter features insights from Michael Allen, Reed Colfax, Yiyang Wu, Stephen Hayes, Rebecca Livengood, and Glenn Schlactus on key civil rights areas we are tracking and how we plan to tackle the challenges ahead based on our roadmap of litigation and counseling experience. As we brace for what’s to come, we invite you to reach out for support, collaboration, or to learn more about our shared mission.

Breaking News: NBC News's Gretchen Morgenson recently spoke with our courageous plaintiffs, Marckus Williams and the Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana (FHCCI), on the two pivotal class-action lawsuits Relman Colfax filed against Progress Residential, the nation’s largest single-family rental provider, and Tricon Residential. These lawsuits challenge the use of rental screening policies that disproportionately deny Black and female rental applicants access to housing. Because single-family rental housing is critical in addressing the nation’s housing crisis, these cases could have far-reaching implications across the United States. ? November is #NationalHomelessnessAwarenessMonth and it is crucial we take action and make #FairHousing a priority. The Relman Colfax litigation team includes Lila Miller, Ellora Israni, and Valerie Comenencia Ortiz, with paralegal support from Esmeralda Hermosillo and Jake Hogan. ? https://lnkd.in/g7Z-izJ5

We congratulate Adam Gordon of Fair Share Housing Center for taking a strong stand in favor of affordable, integrative housing throughout New Jersey. https://lnkd.in/gd-2ndQk

Ralph Fasano, Executive Director of Concern Housing, highlights a critical issue in Newsday Media Group and shines a light on the fair housing discrimination lawsuit against the Town of Southampton that Relman Colfax is bringing in federal court. Despite their sacrifices, many veterans face housing discrimination that undermines their ability to access affordable and secure housing. We must work collaboratively to combat stigma and discrimination, ensuring that veterans have the housing and support they deserve. As a community, we can push for reform and advocate for policies that protect and uplift our veterans, providing them with opportunities for a stable life in inclusive communities. #CivilRights #AffordableHousing #VeteransDay https://lnkd.in/ewGF6gg3

On this Veterans Day, we honor the sacrifices made by our veterans and stand firm in our commitment to protect their rights. Recently, we challenged discriminatory zoning practices in Southampton that hinder the development of supportive housing for veterans and individuals with mental health disabilities. Housing is a fundamental right, and veterans deserve access to safe, supportive, and affordable housing options everywhere. #VeteransDay #FairHousing #CivilRights https://lnkd.in/eHQqNaHu

Great to see HUD driving such positive #FairHousing outcomes. https://lnkd.in/evMWJW5G

This week marks the 50th anniversary of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), a groundbreaking law that initially protected women and married persons from credit discrimination. Overnight, the ECOA changed the trajectory of women's lives, making it illegal to deny someone credit simply for being a woman or married. Just two years later, it expanded to include race, national origin, and other protected classes, broadening the fight against discrimination in lending. Having the opportunity to get a loan can be a life-changing event, allowing for individuals to become financially independent, start businesses, go to college, buy homes, and build generational wealth. This landmark achievement continues to be a vital tool in our work as a civil rights law firm. Let's honor this milestone by committing to ongoing equality and justice in lending practices. Follow us for more updates on civil rights law and how we're advocating for change every day. #ECOA50 #CivilRights #EqualCreditOpportunityAct

October has been a remarkable month for Relman Colfax, underscoring our unwavering commitment to civil rights and justice. Our efforts have resonated in the media and courtrooms, demonstrating the power of legal advocacy in driving systemic change. From having multiple clients featured in The New York Times, to breaking news on civil rights obligations impacting federal funding, to speaking out against anti-DEI movements, our work continues to change minds just as much as it creates lasting change through the law. Join us in our continued commitment to justice and equality!

We are thrilled to announce that Reed Colfax has been honored with the 2024 Emeritus Award as a Fair Housing Champion at the?Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) National Convention! This prestigious award celebrates Reed's tireless efforts and remarkable achievements in promoting #FairHousing and equitable access to homeownership. His dedication to eliminating barriers faced by Asian American and Pacific Islander (#AAPI) communities, as well as other underrepresented groups, is truly inspiring. This recognition is well-deserved and stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to making a difference. #AREAA2024

We are devastated by the recent events on Sapelo Island. Our hearts go out to those impacted, their families, and the entire Gullah Geechee community. The Gullah Geechee people have endured a long and relentless battle for access to essential services and civil rights—a fight we have long supported and will continue to champion. This recent tragedy underscores the dire consequences of systemic neglect and highlights the urgent need for immediate action to rectify inequalities in municipal services. It is time for the state of Georgia and McIntosh County to go beyond thoughts and prayers to instigate tangible change and expedite its promises, protecting this community and its invaluable cultural heritage. We stand with the Gullah Geechee in their quest for justice and equity. https://lnkd.in/ewX8GyWg