Congress passed Civil Rights Act of 1968

The Civil Rights Act of 1968, particularly Title VIII, commonly referred to as the Fair Housing Act, was a landmark piece of legislation aimed at addressing discrimination in housing. This Act prohibited discriminatory practices in housing and housing-related transactions based on race, religion, or national origin. The legislation was a direct response to the ongoing civil rights movement and the persistent issues of residential discrimination that marginalized communities faced. The Act was also expanded in subsequent years to include protections against discrimination based on sex, familial status, and disability, reflecting a broader commitment to equality in housing opportunities. The passage of this Act occurred shortly after the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., which underscored the urgency and importance of addressing racial injustices in America. The Act was seen as a tribute to King's efforts in advocating for equal rights and his fight against residential segregation, which had been a significant barrier to achieving true equality for African Americans and other minority groups.