Finding a new home should be an exciting and joyful time, yet for too many Latino families housing discrimination still happens in Illinois communities. To raise awareness of rights under the federal Fair Housing Act and in recognition of Fair Housing Month, the Latino Policy Forum is training a new cohort of Promotores de Vivienda Justa (Fair Housing Ambassadors).

Promotores are civically-engaged individuals who donate their talent and time to serve as fair housing ambassadors. They are trained in federal, state and local ordinances to provide leadership, peer education, support and resources for community empowerment.

Launched in 2011, Promotores partner with Forum staff to connect the Spanish-speaking community to resources, conduct workshops and provide information at various community venues including Chicago’s Mexican Consulate. “It was an amazing experience and it really helped me step out of my comfort zone, especially as a presenter,” said Alejandra Amuezca, participant of the Promotores program. “It taught me professionalism while allowing me to teach others about their rights.”

For more information in this program and future opportunities to participate, please contact Gypsy Gavia at 312-376-1766 ext. 235. For more information visit www.latinopolicyforum.org.