Attorney General's News Release

Feb. 11, 1998

Nixon calls for renewed efforts against discrimination

Columbia, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon called for a renewed effort against discrimination in public housing at the Governor's Conference on Housing today.

Nixon said the vision for public housing in Missouri's cities needed to be expanded to make sure all who are eligible have access. He warned that this problem still exists and that the Department of Housing and Urban Development must continue to have the authority to investigate housing discrimination claims.

"HUD's authority to investigate instances of housing discrimination must not be compromised," Nixon said. "Without this watchdog, Missouri's children and families could be turned away from a productive future."

Nixon pointed to an investigation by his office that indicated the city of Jennings had been discriminating against African-Americans in housing and employment for 17 years. After that investigation and a subsequent court order, Jennings hired five new black employees and one Hispanic.

"Actions like this will not take place without a powerful watchdog. HUD must use this authority and keep this authority to prevent discrimination," Nixon said.

Nixon also called for a holistic approach to rebuilding Missouri's cities. He called for community policing, more local businesses and strong neighborhood schools funded by public and private partnerships to anchor urban communities.

Nixon, a member of the Missouri Housing Development Authority, spoke to more than 300 tenants, developers and housing employees at the annual Governor's Housing Conference held in Columbia.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818