Shelter is not only a basic human need, it is also critical to people’s ability to pursue and attain economic stability.
We work to remove barriers that limit people’s ability to access safe, affordable, healthy housing that everyone deserves. We educate policymakers so they can pass more effective policies. We litigate and win victories for tenants. We collaborate with community members and partner organizations to identify solutions and amplify the voices of those most impacted. And we inform the public at large so everyone can play a part in ensuring affordable housing for all.
A year ago, Illinois passed a law making it a civil rights violation to deny housing based on an individual's source of income. Housing justice attorney Joerika Stitt looks at the law's impact.
Background screening practices block many tenants from safe and affordable housing.
Since everyone needs a place to live, ensuring that people with records have access to stable housing is not merely equitable, but also a matter of common sense.
Source of income discrimination disproportionately affects people of color, women, and people with disabilities.
This can never happen again.
Now is the time to push for innovative solutions and reimagine the eviction system’s role in perpetuating poverty.
Crime-free nuisance ordinances (CFNOs) are municipal laws and policies that single out properties where alleged nuisances occur. These activities can be noise disturbances or emergency service calls. CFNOs hold tenants responsible through fines and evictions, among other penalties. This puts domestic violence victims and people with disabilities at risk, who often seek emergency services and police assistance.
Unfair background screening practices create barriers to housing.
Shriver Center participates in White House meeting with tenant leaders, advocates, and providers.
We must remove barriers that limit people's ability to make those choices and to address the legacy of racism that is embedded in our country's housing policies.
Feb 2023
Eviction filings hamper tenants' ability to find a new home, regardless of the outcome of the case.
Jun 2021
Tenants deserve to be protected under consumer protection laws.
Aug 2020
This Spanish-language webinar covers general elements of fair housing law
Jul 2020
A collection of readings, research, and tools to help guide an understanding of structural racism.
Jun 2020
The Fight for Environmental Justice in Federally Assisted Housing
Jun 2020
Shriver Center advocates share updates on their COVID-19 response work and impact.
Mar 2020
Links to information and useful resources to aid communities seeking support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jul 2018
The policy of aldermanic prerogative has hindered development of affordable housing and racial integration in the City of Chicago
Sep 2019
Mar 2017
Crime free rental housing and nuisance property ordinances often have very costly consequences for tenant families, landlords, and the whole community
Feb 2015
Overly restrictive housing admissions policies create barriers to housing for individuals with criminal records.
67 East Madison Street, Suite 2000
Chicago, IL 60603
phone: 312.263.3830
