What law prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, and other characteristics?

The Fair Housing Act is the law that specifically prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability. Enacted in 1968, it was a critical piece of legislation aimed at combating discrimination and promoting equal housing opportunities for all individuals in the United States. The Act makes it illegal to refuse to rent, sell, or negotiate for housing based on the aforementioned characteristics, thereby laying the groundwork for diverse and inclusive communities.

In terms of historical context, while the Civil Rights Act of 1964 addresses discrimination broadly in various spheres, including employment and education, it does not specifically focus on housing discrimination. The Equal Opportunity Act, though related to fair practices, also does not singularly address housing issues in the same manner as the Fair Housing Act. Similarly, the Housing Protection Act is not a recognized piece of legislation that specifically targets housing discrimination as the Fair Housing Act does, which is why it falls outside the context of this question.