Meet Fair Housing Center board member, Joan Burda. Both personally and professionally, Joan’s commitment to working to help those facing discrimination is evident. Check out our interview with Joan to learn more!
Q: How long have you been a board member for the Fair Housing Center?
A: Since January 2017.
Q: How did you get connected with the Fair Housing Center, and what makes you want to stay involved with this work?
A: I was recruited by Jonathan Entin. My interest in fair housing issues is long-standing. As the former program director for the Cleveland Homeless Legal Assistance Program, I interacted daily with people for whom adequate housing was a constant problem. Throughout my legal career, I have worked with people who faced discrimination in housing. The Fair Housing Center is an advocate for people facing housing discrimination and conducts research that helps others understand the issues. Joining the board is a natural progression for me.
Q: What do you do for a living?
A: I practice law, teach at Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and write books and articles on a variety of topics.
Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
A: Free time? What is that? I volunteer with the Cleveland Metroparks as a Trail Ambassador. I spend time with my spouse, Betsy.
Q: What do you want people to know about the Fair Housing Center?
A: It is important that people know of the national standing the Fair Housing Center has developed as a result of the research it conducts. To my knowledge, no other housing non-profit in the country has a research arm. Anecdotal evidence of housing discrimination is important; but, extensive analysis of housing discrimination patterns provides evidence that advocates can use to protect people. The Fair Housing Center is a vital part of the local, state and national efforts to provide adequate housing for everyone.
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