Prairie State Legal Services Fair Housing Project

07/31/2026

07/21/2026

During July, as we reflect on 250 years of American independence, we are reminded that the promise of freedom must include fair housing access for everyone.

One way community members can help protect that promise is by partnering with PSLS as a fair housing tester. Testers play an important role in identifying housing discrimination by helping document how renters, buyers, and home seekers are treated in the housing market.

Fair housing testing helps uncover barriers that may otherwise go unseen — whether based on race, color, national origin, religion, s*x, disability, familial status, or other protected status under fair housing laws.

You do not need to be a lawyer or a housing expert to make a difference. Fair housing testers are trained, supported, and given clear instructions. You can help ensure that everyone has a fair chance to find a safe and stable place to call home.

If you are interested in becoming a fair housing tester, contact us at [email protected].

07/01/2026

As our country celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this Fourth of July, we are reminded that the promise of freedom is not complete without access to justice.

Fair housing is about more than where someone lives. It is about opportunity, dignity, family stability, and the right to build a life free from discrimination. The ideals of liberty and justice belong in every neighborhood, every rental office, every lending decision, and every community.

This Fourth of July, we honor the progress that has been made while recognizing the work still ahead. True freedom includes the ability to choose where to live without being turned away because of race, color, national origin, religion, s*x, disability, familial status, source of income, or any other protected status under fair housing laws.

As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, we recommit to expanding access to justice, removing barriers, and ensuring that fair housing is not just a law, but a lived reality for all.

07/01/2026

As our country celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this Fourth of July, we are reminded that the promise of freedom is not complete without access to justice.
Fair housing is about more than where someone lives. It is about opportunity, dignity, family stability, and the right to build a life free from discrimination. The ideals of liberty and justice belong in every neighborhood, every rental office, every lending decision, and every community.

This Fourth of July, we honor the progress that has been made while recognizing the work still ahead. True freedom includes the ability to choose where to live without being turned away because of race, color, national origin, religion, s*x, disability, familial status, source of income, or any other protected status under fair housing laws.

As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, we recommit to expanding access to justice, removing barriers, and ensuring that fair housing is not just a law, but a lived reality for all.

05/06/2026

CONGRATULATIONS: Maya Ziv-El, PSLS' Senior Rental Housing Attorney, recently accepted the Northern District of Illinois Federal Court’s Pro Bono and Public Interest Award. She was nominated for her work in federal court for a PSLS client: https://pslegal.org/job-details/Rockford-Area-Landlord-Pays-Damages-for-Racial-Insult. Maya was nominated by PSLS’ Director of Complex and Appellate Litigation, Katie Liss, who wrote in part: “Her work in enforcing the protections of the Fair Housing Act not only secured meaningful relief for her client but also reinforced the broader public interest in fair housing.” Congratulations, Maya!

Pictured: PSLS Director of Legal Operations, Sam DiGrino (left), PSLS Senior Rental Housing Attorney, Maya Ziv-El (middle), and PSLS Director of Complex and Appellate Litigation, Katie Liss (right).

05/01/2026

Fair housing protections apply to older adults. It may be unlawful to treat individuals differently in housing based on age or disability, including in senior or long-term care settings. Housing providers must follow fair housing laws and apply policies consistently. If you have concerns about a fair housing issue affecting an older adult, contact PSLS at 855-347-7757 to speak with a member of our staff and apply for our services.

04/30/2026

Housing providers should ensure that screening criteria, including criminal background policies, are applied consistently and in compliance with fair housing requirements. Policies that are not applied uniformly or that create unnecessary barriers may raise fair housing concerns. If you have questions about your rights or housing policies, contact PSLS at 855-347-7757 to speak with a member of our staff and apply for our services.

04/30/2026

Earlier this week, City of Bloomington, Illinois issued a proclamation recognizing April as Fair Housing Month. PSLS Supervising Attorney, Erin Duncan, accepted the proclamation from Bloomington Mayor Dan Brady.

04/30/2026

The Lake County Board recently issued a proclamation recognizing April as Fair Housing Month. PSLS Supervising Attorney, Gautham Kaveti (fourth from left) and PSLS Senior Rental Housing Attorney, Maya Ziv-El (third from right), attended the meeting to accept the proclamation. Thank you, Lake County, IL Government, for supporting PSLS!

04/29/2026

Fair housing protections include accessible design and construction. Certain multifamily housing must meet accessibility requirements to ensure equal use by individuals with disabilities. This may include accessible entrances and common areas, usable kitchens and bathrooms, and reinforcements for grab bars. Accessible housing helps ensure equal opportunity for all. If you have concerns about accessibility in housing, contact PSLS at 855-347-7757 to speak with a member of our staff and apply for our services.