This event focused on the Supreme Court decision in Shelley vs. Kraemer (1948) which held that private racially restrictive covenants could not be enforced by the state, and the Fair Housing Act (1968) which protects people from discrimination when they seek housing. Guests heard a panel discussion of three unique stories: perspective from residents of Grand Rapids’ Auburn Hills neighborhood, President Gerald R. Ford’s childhood in Grand Rapids and his support of the Fair Housing Act, and finally the story of the founding of the Fair Housing Center.

Panelists include Beverly Grant, Cheryl Franks, Richard Norton Smith, Lee Weber, and Doretha Ardoin. Moderated by Rev. Joe Jones.