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Whereas, discrimination in housing causes segregation which thereby limit the opportunities and positive influences we make and receive in our neighborhoods these influences often lead to employment or choice careers in the field of education; and
Whereas, racial segregation in housing remains a persistent problem despite the integration of other areas of society both in Pittsburgh and throughout this great nation; and
Whereas, ownership of real property is a means for families and individuals to accumulate wealth which may benefit the community at large and future generations; and
Whereas, as Americans it is believed that we enjoy more political and economic freedom than other countries, for our nation is known the world over for liberty and rights enjoyed by all citizens, including the right to own or rent real property; and
Whereas, above all else, we, as duly elected representatives of the people must dedicate ourselves to work to ensure that our communities are open to all people to live the American dream of home ownership and to exercise their freedom to choose where they live for we know that discrimination of any kind is morally offensive and reprehensible; and
Whereas, we acknowledge the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Fair Housing Partnership of Grater Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Commission of Human Relations in insuring that these rights are protected, setting aside the month of April to celebrate and remind us free rights and the responsibilities of supplying a public service.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh hereby proclaims April 20, 2004 as Fair Housing Month, recognizing that each and every one of us share in the future of this great nation, and as a reminder we should not take these freedoms for granted.