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By Caroline Griffin

America stands for the promise of equal opportunity for all. Unfortunately, at a time when America should be working to fulfill that promise, we are faced with concerning rollbacks of key federal housing protections—especially for our most vulnerable neighbors within our communities.

Recent policy shifts by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) signal a retreat from the federal government’s long-standing commitment to fair housing enforcement. This includes the sidelining of the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule—an essential safeguard meant to ensure that communities proactively dismantle segregation and expand affordable housing opportunity.

Equally alarming is HUD’s recent track record of dismissing housing discrimination complaints, particularly those filed by transgender Americans, whose right to safe and stable housing is increasingly under threat.

Additionally, HUD proposed regulations last year that aimed to change how criminal backgrounds are considered in public housing, including guidelines on look-back periods. These regulations were withdrawn earlier this year, reflecting the ongoing debate and reconsideration of policies related to criminal history screening in housing.

These changes have real consequences. For those among us seeking stable housing or in need of more affordable housing – possibly just trying to make ends meet – in many states will find themselves out of luck and out of options for housing.

For transgender Americans—who already face disproportionate rates of homelessness, eviction, and housing denial—turning a blind eye to discrimination is not just bad policy; it’s a matter of survival. When our federal institutions withdraw from enforcing the Fair Housing Act, they send a dangerous message: that some people’s rights are negotiable.

However, Pennsylvania will not echo that message.

Under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, all Pennsylvanians are protected from housing discrimination—regardless of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, and other protected characteristics. While federal enforcement falters, our commitment remains firm. In Pennsylvania, it is illegal for yout to be refused housing, charged different rates, or be subjected to unequal terms because of who you are. That includes transgender individuals and members of other marginalized communities.

To those who have faced discrimination in seeking a place to live: you are not alone, and you are not without recourse. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) urges you to file a complaint. Our mission is to investigate and, when necessary, litigate housing discrimination claims to ensure fair treatment for all residents of the commonwealth. We are here to listen. We are here to act.

In a just society, the right to safe and equitable housing cannot be selective. It must be defended—especially when federal protections falter. Pennsylvania will continue to lead with integrity, enforce the law, and protect the dignity of every person who calls Pennsylvania home.

If you or someone you know has experienced housing discrimination, contact the PHRC. You can call the PHRC at 717-787-4410 or email PHRC at phrc@pa.gov. Learn more about your rights and protections at www.pa.gov/agencies/PHRC.

Your voice matters—and we are ready to hear it.

Caroline Griffin is Director of Fair Housing and Commercial Property, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.