Teen Citizens & Consumers: Speak Up!
A guide to combating intolerance
Relevant Federal Statutes
Fair Housing Act of 1968, 42 U.S.C. §3631, prohibits housing-related violence on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status and national origin. The violence prosecuted under this section includes cross burnings, fire bombings, arson, gun shots, rock throwing or vandalism. The statute reaches all persons involved at any stage of the housing transaction, such as sellers, buyers, landlords, tenants and real estate agents.
Civil Rights - Federally Protected Activities, 18 U.S.C. §245, prohibits the use of force or threats of force against individuals engaged in certain specific activities because of the individuals' race, color, religion or national origin. These activities include participating in any benefit, service, program, facility or activity provided or administered by the state or any subdivision of the state; applying for or employment by any private employer or state or local agency; and using the goods or services of a place of public accommodation, e.g., a restaurant, hotel, movie theater, etc.
Conspiracy Against Rights, 18 U.S.C. §241, prohibits conspiracies with a purpose to injure, threaten or intimidate one or more persons from the free exercise or enjoyment of a right secured or protected by the Constitution or laws of the United States.
