Real estate racism exposed: Coldwell Banker settles for housing discrimination on Long Island
STATEWIDE — Attorney General Letitia James announced on Wednesday a settlement with Coldwell Banker, putting an end to the real estate brokerage’s alleged discriminatory practices against Black, Hispanic, and other homebuyers of color on Long Island, which is considered by some to be the most segregated part of the United States.
“There is zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind in New York state,” said Attorney General James. “My office’s investigation into Coldwell Banker uncovered a persistent pattern of prospective homebuyers receiving different treatment because of their race. Discriminating against people because of race is not just shameful — it is illegal. Housing is and always will be a human right, and my office will continue to address these pervasive and discriminatory practices statewide.”
The settlement comes after the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) launched an investigation into Coldwell Banker and other brokerages following Newsday’s investigative report on housing discrimination.