"We cannot defend freedom abroad by deserting it at home." -- Edward R. Murrow
The National Association of Realtors' educational program, At Home With Diversity, is an excellent program for those in our profession looking to enhance and improve their skills and abilities when working with diverse cultures. It does, however, have a significant piece missing.
The National Association of Realtor' Code of Ethics states:
1. Realtors shall not deny equal professional services to any person for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. Realtors shall not be parties to any plan or agreement to discriminate against a person or persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. (Amended 1/90)
2. Realtors, in their real estate employment practices, shall not discriminate against any person or persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. (Amended 1/00)
I encourage the National Association of Realtors to include in their Code of Ethics the term "sexual orientation". This protection for the LGBT community (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender community) isn't the major leap that many in our profession might think it is. The phrase "sexual orientation" is already included in The One America Principles referenced in the At Home With Diversity educational course.
I decided to write this blog entry on the 4th of July because I believe in Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness for all in this country. What better day to encourage the National Association of Realtors to include "sexual orientation" in their Code of Ethics than the day that celebrates our nation's commitment to freedom for all.
