TESTERS WANTED
We need testers to help fight housing discrimination
What’s a tester?
Our fair housing testers pretend to be looking to rent and call or go in person to check on rentals. Then they fill out a detailed report on exactly what happened. The reports of different testers are compared to see if testers were treated differently.
If different testers are shown different apartments, told different rent amounts, or told different rental requirements, it might be evidence of discrimination.
Why test?
Discrimination in housing is a real problem. Proving it can be hard. People who discriminate don’t usually say things like, “I don’t rent to blacks.” Testing is a way to find the problems. For many years now, the government and agencies have used testers to look into reports of discrimination. One successful case using testers even went to the U.S. Supreme Court. Test results have led to thousands of successful agency complaints, lawsuits, and other measures to stamp out housing discrimination!
We need your help!
A successful testing program requires diversity. We need people of all races, colors, national origins, abilities, ages and genders. We will train you. You need to be dependable and able to fill out a report.
Why should you be a tester?
You will get to help fight housing discrimination. You will be helping people live where they choose. Your work will help ensure that landlords and property owners follow the law.
If you are interested in becoming a tester or would like more information, contact: Erica Whitaker
Fair Housing Investigation and Outreach Coordinator at
(612) 552-6531 ewhitaker@mylegalaid.org