Relman Colfax PLLC

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

We at Relman Colfax are deeply appreciative of Nick Blumberg of WTTW/Chicago PBS for covering this important story regarding Chicago's ongoing accessible housing lawsuit and the potential impacts and harms of stalling. Michael Allen, a partner at our firm, stated, “People with disabilities should be fully integrated into community settings and not live in places like nursing homes and assisted living. They shouldn’t be required to live in housing where the conditions are dangerous for them getting in and out of their units every day.” It's imperative that the City addresses these concerns and work towards a solution with Access Living that not only aligns with federal laws but also promotes equitable and accessible living conditions for all. #DisabilityRights #ChicagoHousing https://lnkd.in/eFmkfEAJ

Thank you to Planetizen and Jennifer Raitt for this thoughtful analysis. We agree that proactively planning around #FairHousing principles is the best approach. Too often, though, local officials surrender to #NIMBY opposition. Most recently, Relman Colfax PLLC saw that in Southampton, NY, where it had to sue on behalf of Concern Housing: https://lnkd.in/epiYSbn9

Relman Colfax, on behalf of the National Fair Housing Alliance , has reached a pivotal agreement with Breland Companies, LLC to address and resolve accessibility issues at The Lofts at Town Madison in Alabama. This settlement marks a significant advancement in ensuring compliance with the Fair Housing Act's accessibility requirements. With over 1.3 million adults in Alabama living with a disability, accessible housing is not just a necessity but a fundamental human right protected under federal law. This agreement not only ensures that The Lofts will meet federal law standards but also sets a precedent for other multi-family housing providers to follow suit. The Relman Colfax litigation team included Sara Pratt and Emily Curran. https://lnkd.in/eSUVb8dW #FairHousing #Accessibility #ADA

Today marks #IndigenousPeoplesDay. This day gives us an opportunity to celebrate the rich heritage of Native and Indigenous people in America and to honor the contributions of Native and Indigenous individuals and communities to our country. At the same time, it reminds us of the need to recognize the profound discrimination that has been faced by members of these communities, and to fight against continuing discrimination and its effects. Native and Indigenous people continue to face discrimination on a daily basis, including in housing, credit, and employment. Relman Colfax stands in solidarity with Native and Indigenous people in the fight to end discrimination and cultivate an equitable society that allows all Native and Indigenous people to thrive. If you have experienced discrimination because of your race/ethnicity or national origin or the language you speak, feel free to contact us by visiting here: https://lnkd.in/eBzMv9kd

October 25, 2024 Training: The Intersection of Disability Rights & Fair Housing Star-studded cast! Invaluable insights! Details on how to build your own Access Living v. City of Chicago accessible housing litigation! Best value training available on the planet! WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Details and registration link: https://lnkd.in/exUeGjhn

We’re proud to announce that Relman Colfax's Alexa Milton has been featured in Common Dreams for her insightful op-ed on #NationalComingOutDay! In "Can Americans Come Out if Corporations Have Shut the Door? A Call for Courage" Alexa emphasizes the importance of standing firm against anti-#DEI pressures and the critical need for corporate leaders to hold strong in their values and allyship for the #LGBTQIA+ community. Her powerful message is a call to action for industries to continue supporting #inclusivity and #equality in the workplace. Read her full op-ed here: https://lnkd.in/egvzZivj