HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) recently ordered 1952 Allegheny Associates LP to pay over $55,000 in a case involving racial and national origin discrimination. This decision follows a rigorous investigation and hearing process that revealed the landlord’s failure to accommodate a tenant’s request due to their color and national origin.
The PHRC initially served the landlord with a complaint, which was left unanswered, prompting a public hearing on damages on May 16, 2024, in Philadelphia. The proceedings, led by PHRC Assistant Chief Counsel Stacy McNaney, Esq., culminated in a decisive August 26 order. The Commission’s findings resulted in 1952 Allegheny Associates being mandated to pay $45,408.10 to the aggrieved tenant and an additional $10,000 to the Commonwealth as a civil penalty for emotional distress.
PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW, stated, “The PHRC will always defend those who experience illegal discrimination.” The order further requires the landlord to cease discriminatory practices, undergo Fair Housing Training, and report compliance measures to the PHRC within 90 days.
This ruling serves as a potent reminder to landlords about the serious repercussions of ignoring discrimination complaints. PHRC Interim Chief Counsel Morgan Williams, Esq., emphasized that the outcome should deter other landlords from dismissing such grievances and underscores the PHRC’s dedication to upholding housing rights within Pennsylvania.
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