Episode Details

Synopsis:  As concerns about rolled-back protections grow louder, whistleblowers at HUD have risked it all by going public with allegations that paint a stark picture of systematic regression on equality under the law.

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Description:  Housing discrimination is illegal in the U.S., but every year, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) receives thousands of complaints from individuals who believe they are not being treated fairly because of their race, religion, disability and other protected classes. HUD is one of the only free resources available to Americans facing housing discrimination, but a shocking new whistleblower complaint letter released on Monday, September 29, 2025 says the agency is in crisis. Staff was slashed by 70% since Donald Trump took office, some civil rights cases have been abandoned, and political appointees are allegedly overriding legal findings to allow discrimination. These are just some of the claims in the formal complaint letter, which has now been filed through U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren’s office and taken to the press. In this conversation, Laura Flanders speaks to two of the four whistleblowers, HUD civil rights fair housing attorneys, to find out what this story means for civil rights and why they’re speaking out now. As fair housing hangs in the balance, Palmer Heenan and Paul Osadebe are organizing union members to uphold their oath to defend the constitution and protect Americans.

Guests:

• Palmer Heenan: Attorney, HUD Whistleblower; Member, AFGE 476

• Paul Osadebe: Attorney, HUD Whistleblower; Steward, AFGE 476

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Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 12th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 15th  (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast.

RESOURCES:

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Related Articles and Resources:

• U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren announces receipt of official complaint from HUD whist