His press release indicates that the program is blatantly and deliberately discriminatory, saying this:
Offered through the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), the Opening Doors or Abriendo Puertas program is designed to aid lower-income people of color who have historically faced steeper barriers in their path toward homeownership with $6,000 in forgivable assistance for down payment and/or closing costs
“Homeownership is a critical asset for growing generational wealth and providing family stability. But with today’s fiscal climate and the rising cost of living, prospective homeowners—especially those from historically disadvantaged communities—are struggling to secure housing,” said Governor JB Pritzker.
“When inequities have historically blocked low-income families and families of color from buying a home, Illinois is stepping up to right those wrongs and pave the way to a better future for communities that have faced these barriers,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.
How is this not a violation of the federal, state and local anti-discrimination law? Eligibility is restricted by caps on income and home purchase price. Those criteria should be applied regardless of race. Even if the program is being administered fairly, it cannot be promoted in ways that indicate it’s for particular races. That’s illegal and wrong.
–Mark Glennon
