| Bill Hassan, a naturalized
American of Syrian descent, is a Western New York property owner. While in
the process of updating his property for rental, he experienced what he
believed to be discrimination based on his national origin. These
incidents followed the September 11th terrorist attack.
At the end of August, Mr. Hassan called a
municipal building inspector out to his two-family rental home. The
inspector was punctual, friendly, and helpful as he told Mr. Hassan what
needed to be done before the apartment could be rented. Mr. Hassan
contacted his electrician and the work requested was completed.
On September 13th when the inspector went
back to re-inspect the property, his attitude toward Mr. Hassan had
changed dramatically. The inspector refused to answer Mr. Hassan's
questions and cited him for an entirely new list of violations. The
inspector then asked the owner where his accent was from. Mr. Hassan
reminded him he was there to do an electrical inspection and not to check
his accent.
After correcting the inspector's second
list of violations, Mr. Hassan had a difficult time getting the inspector
to reschedule the appointment. The inspector then failed to show for a
scheduled appointment.
After losing time, tenants, and money a
frustrated Mr. Hassan called HOME and spoke with a Fair Housing
Specialist. It was Mr. Hassan's belief that he was being treated
differently by the inspector as a result of the September 11th terrorist
attack. The client was advised of his rights and an investigation was
pursued. HOME then contacted the Inspections Department on Mr. Hassan's
behalf and spoke with an administrator, who was surprised to learn what
had occurred. Within days, another inspector was assigned and Mr. Hassan
was able to have his property inspected.
If you or someone you know have
experienced discrimination due to your nation of origin (or any other
reason), please contact Housing
Opportunities Made Equal and ask to speak with a Fair Housing
Specialist. |
