New York Updates.

Your NYC, Your Human Rights: January Newsletter

February 3, 2021

287

Commission Continues to Creatively Address Source of Income Discrimination

Through a new strategy to address systemic source of income discrimination, the Commission now requires landlords who discriminate against individuals because they are voucher-holders to not only repair the harm to that individual, but also to set aside units to provide housing to additional voucher-holders. Since implementing this strategy, the Commission has negotiated 58 units for families using housing vouchers, ensuring they have access to safe housing. Learn more about source of income discrimination

Commission Staff Member’s COVID-19 Work Recognized by City

Flora Ferng, the Commission’s East Asian Communities Liaison, received the annual award given by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services and the Frederick O’Reilly Hayes Foundation for her work combating anti-Asian discrimination as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since February 2020, Flora has organized bias response town halls with community partners to educate Asian New Yorkers about their rights in the midst of heightened levels of discrimination, reaching thousands of people. Read more here.

A panel of people sitting and talking

We’re Not Kidding Around

A broker and several affiliated landlords told a single mom that they would not show her apartments because, according to them, she “had too many kids.” This is illegal discrimination, and after our investigation confirmed what happened, we settled the case, requiring the landlords and broker to pay $10,000 in damages and penalties and change their policies. Learn more about discrimination on the basis of presence of children.

Why Do You Still Believe in NYC?

Even while facing COVID-related stigma, thousands of Asian and Pacific Islander New Yorkers continue to support the City as essential workers in health care, food service, and transportation. They haven’t given up on New York City, and the Commission hasn’t either. Visit https://www.istillbelieve.nyc/ to share why YOU still believe in New York City and stay tuned for more updates on this public awareness campaign coming this spring!

A colorful mural with two woman and flowers with the words I still believe in our city

Know Your Rights: Vaccines

The Commission has updated its COVID-19 and human rights guidance to address employer requirements regarding vaccine administration and requirements. Learn more here.

A silhouette of lady liberty wearing amask and flexing her arms with a bandage on it. NYC Vaccine for all: Safe, free, easy