FHD Program Overview
The Fair Housing Defenders program is dedicated to ending housing discrimination through comprehensive education for teens about the Fair Housing Act. Our mission is to empower young individuals to recognize, challenge, and speak out against housing discrimination in their communities.
Program Objectives
Education
In-depth workshops covering the history and significance of the Fair Housing Act.
Exploration of various forms of housing discrimination and individual rights under the law.
Real-life scenarios and implications of discriminatory practices.
Advocacy Training
Training in advocacy skills, including public speaking and organizing community events.
Engaging with local policymakers to voice concerns and take action against discrimination.
Interactive Content Creation
Encouragement for teens to contribute to comic books, social media campaigns, and educational materials.
Fostering creativity and ownership of the message.
Community Engagement
Facilitation of partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community leaders.
Creation of a supportive network providing access to resources and guidance.
Empowerment through Leadership
Development of leadership skills and a sense of agency.
Emphasis on the importance of standing up for rights and cultivating a commitment to social justice.
Program Offers
Educational Workshops
Interactive sessions tailored for various audiences, focusing on the Fair Housing Act, types of discrimination, and legal rights.
Incorporation of real-life scenarios and case studies for enhanced understanding.
Engaging Presentations
Dynamic presentations using multimedia elements—videos, slides, and storytelling—to convey important messages about fair housing and discrimination.
Edutainment Materials
Creative resources such as comic books, infographics, and interactive games to make learning about fair housing accessible and enjoyable.
Designed to resonate with a diverse audience for relatability and impact.
Resource Guides
Comprehensive guides summarizing key concepts, rights, and resources for individuals facing housing discrimination.
Serving as reference materials for ongoing education and advocacy.
Training for Landlords and Property Managers
Specialized sessions focusing on fair housing laws, compliance best practices, and fostering inclusive communities.
Community Events
Opportunities for participants to engage with their communities through fairs, panels, and advocacy events promoting awareness and discussion about housing equity.
Meet the Fair Housing Defenders!
Abel
Abel is an athletic Latin teen who believes limits are merely mental constructs. Aspiring to compete in the U.S. Paralympics, he refuses to let discrimination hinder his dreams. As a leader in the classroom and on the basketball court, Abel advocates for a shift in perspective, encouraging his community to recognize individuals not by their disabilities but by their diverse abilities and strengths. He represents the protected class of Disability, inspiring others to embrace their potential.
Justice
Justice is a sharp-minded teenager who utilizes his intelligence and resourcefulness to tackle environmental injustice in his neighborhood, Fifth Ward. After discovering how discrimination has historically impacted his community, he becomes determined to combat the ongoing effects of segregation. Justice represents the protected class of Race, advocating for awareness and driving change for a more equitable environment for all.
Sang
A recent immigrant from Vietnam, Sang faces the challenges of adapting to a new country that often resists his presence due to stereotypes. Living up to the meaning of his name, which signifies “noble” or “peace,” he advocates for himself amid adversity. When his voice goes unheard, he uses his drone, Whiz, to document acts of housing discrimination, raising awareness in his community. Whiz also serves as a language tutor, helping Sang learn English and other languages. Sang represents the protected class of National Origin, striving to challenge discrimination and foster understanding.
Aya
Aya is a unique bi-racial teen girl who embraces her dual heritage. The right side of her body reflects her lighter complexion and straight blonde hair, while the left showcases a deeper skin tone and curly black hair. Her commitment to advocating for equal treatment—especially for survivors of natural disasters—makes her a powerful voice for change. Aya represents the protected class of Color, challenging biases and promoting equality for everyone, regardless of their appearance.
Liberty
Liberty is a fierce advocate for female empowerment, standing against the exploitation and harassment of women. Adorned in green hues symbolizing freedom and democracy, she leads the charge against sexual harassment, particularly from her unscrupulous landlord. Liberty’s mission is to show other women that their gender is a source of strength. She represents the protected class of Sex, inspiring others to assert their rights and power in the face of discrimination.
Taranjit
Taranjit, a young Sikh teen, embodies the meaning of his name: victory over bondage. Despite his age, he has witnessed how assumptions about his appearance and beliefs can trap society in ignorance. Committed to justice, Taranjit encourages others to report acts of discrimination, striving for the benefit and prosperity of all. He represents the protected class of Religion, working to foster understanding and promote an inclusive society.
Shilah and Shenandoah
Shilah and Shenandoah are resilient Native American teenage twins fighting for survival after their mother’s death from COVID-19. Forced to mature quickly, they navigate resources for homeless teens while facing housing insecurity. Determined to make a difference, they advocate for all children in need of a safe place to sleep. These twins represent the protected class of Familial Status, raising awareness about the challenges faced by vulnerable youth and ensuring every child has a secure home.
Meet the Team!
Melissa Diaz, FHD Program Director
Melissa Diaz manages all finance and legal functions for the Fair Housing Defenders program. She develops strategies and establishes functional objectives aligned with the programmatic goals. Melissa cultivates relationships with community organizations, schools, and vendors to ensure access to services and resources. She also creates content for the Fair Housing Defenders comic books, workshops, and speaking events. Melissa graduated with distinction from the University of Houston with an MBA and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Texas Southern University.
Sasha Marshall-Smith, FHD Program Director
Sasha Marshall-Smith is the Program Director of the Fair Housing Defenders program. She manages new initiatives to support the strategic direction of the program, oversees funding opportunities, and ensures the continuous delivery of services and comic book production. Sasha creates content for the Fair Housing Defenders comic books, workshops, and speaking events. A national public speaker, she has educated over two million people about affordable home development, housing discrimination, and fair housing rights. Sasha graduated with honors from Langston University with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism and holds a Master’s degree in Regional and City Planning from the University of Oklahoma.
Impact
Our goal is to cultivate a new generation of informed advocates who understand their rights and are prepared to confront injustices. By promoting a culture of awareness and activism, we aim to reduce housing discrimination and enhance equality in housing for everyone. Together, we can create a more just and inclusive society.
Through the Fair Housing Defenders program, we empower diverse stakeholders with the knowledge and resources needed to foster an equitable housing landscape. Our mission is to enable individuals and organizations to identify discrimination, uphold fair housing rights, and nurture inclusive communities. Together, we can strive for a future free from housing discrimination.
FHD Comic Book Issue 0
FHD Comic Book Issue 1
FHD Comic Book Issue 2
Let’s work together.
Fair Housing Education: Available in Person and Virtually
We are excited to offer educational presentations, workshops, and event booths on fair housing, led by FHD Program Directors, Melissa and Sasha. Whether you're looking to host an in-person session or a virtual one, our team is here to provide expert guidance and resources.
Our engaging and informative sessions aim to empower individuals and communities with a deeper understanding of fair housing rights and responsibilities. We are available to facilitate learning at public events, conferences, and workshops, providing valuable insights to support a fair and inclusive housing environment for all.
Get in Touch!
If you're interested in scheduling a session or learning more about our services, please fill out the form below. We look forward to collaborating with you to promote fair housing awareness and education.