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On September 22, 2025, the Rhode Island Civil Rights Commission announced that it has taken legal action against several landlords in the state for engaging in discriminatory housing practices. The commission, which is tasked with enforcing laws that protect individuals from discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors, has been investigating numerous complaints of housing discrimination over the past year.One of the cases involves a landlord in Providence who allegedly refused to rent an apartment to a transgender woman because of her gender identity. The commission's investigation found evidence that the landlord had a policy of only renting to cisgender individuals, which is a clear violation of the Fair Housing Act. The commission has filed a complaint against the landlord and is seeking damages on behalf of the woman who was denied housing.In another case, the commission is pursuing legal action against a landlord in Cranston who allegedly discriminated against a family because of their national origin. The family, who immigrated to the United States from El Salvador, was told by the landlord that they could not rent an apartment because they were not "American enough." The commission's investigation uncovered discriminatory practices at multiple properties owned by the landlord, and it is seeking a court order to stop the discrimination and provide relief to the affected families."These cases are clear examples of the type of discrimination that the Rhode Island Civil Rights Commission is dedicated to combating," said Commission Chairperson Maria Lopez. "No one should be denied housing based on their race, gender, or any other protected characteristic. We will continue to hold landlords accountable for their discriminatory practices and ensure that all individuals have equal access to housing in our state."The commission is urging anyone who believes they have been discriminated against in housing to come forward and file a complaint. It is also working with community organizations to educate landlords and tenants about their rights and responsibilities under the Fair Housing Act."We are committed to creating a more equitable housing market in Rhode Island," Lopez added. "By holding discriminatory landlords accountable and providing resources to those who have been affected by discrimination, we can ensure that all residents have the opportunity to secure safe and affordable housing."