Join the Fight Against HousingDiscrimination

The Fair Housing Council (FHCO) needs people from all backgrounds throughout Oregon and SW Washington

What is a Test? “Testing” works like this. Suppose an African- American calls the FHCO with a concern of being denied housing based on race. The FHCO would then send out two testers separately. One tester will be African-American. One tester will be white. The tester’s assigned qualifications would be identical so that race would be the only real difference between them. The testers would each visit the site, inquire about the property, and then report back on how they were treated. The Enforcement Coordinator reviews the reports to decide whether the testers were treated differently. For example, it might be discovered that the African-American tester was told that no units are available and the white tester was told there were units available. Or, it might be found that both testers were given the sameinformation and treated equally.

Important testing skills: Punctuality, Flexibility, and Reliability Attention to detail An ability to remember what you observed An ability to accurately write down these observations A willingness to be objective and not draw conclusions or make assumptions An ability to reply spontaneously when a housing provider asks an unexpected question

What is the Purpose of Testing?

The purpose of testing is to gatherindependent evidence. Often, testingevidence is the only way to show that someone is breaking fair housing laws. Federal courts have consistentlysupported fair housing testing.

When a test shows evidence ofdiscrimination, we refer victim(s) to a lawyer, or to an enforcement agency such as the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries, or the Washington State Human Rights Commission.

What Kind of Training is Required?

All testers must attend a free 2.5-hour training session.

Are There Other Qualifications?

Testers may become witnesses at a trial or hearing. If that happens we will give you more information and guidance. There are two general rules: you must be willing to tell the truth, and not have a prior felony conviction or any other matter in your background that a lawyer could use to discredit your testimony.

Do I Have to Drive or Have a Car?

It is not necessary to drive or have a car although it helps. If you drive, you must have auto insurance and a valid driver's license.

Are Testers Paid?

For most testing, we provide a $50reimbursement for each assigned and completed onsite test, and $25 for each assigned and completedtelephone test. We also reimburse for any related mileage and long distance phone charges incurred.

How Often Will I Test?

We can’t predict when we will need to send out testers, or what kind of tester profile is required. Some people test quite frequently, or on short notice, and others seldom or never do. How often you test often depends on the type of complaints we receive and your own availability. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

How Can I Sign Up for Training?

Call the Fair Housing Council at 800/424-3247 Ext. 106

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This page created by FHCO Volunteer, Ruthann Bedenkop

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