The East Bay has long been known for its commitment to social justice and as a generator of positive social change. From discriminatory practices of the early 20th century to the landmark fair housing legislation of the 1960s and beyond, the region has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's approach to housing equity.

 

At the center of this transformative movement was William Byron Rumford. In 1931 Rumford earned his pharmacy degree at UCSF, then opened a pharmacy in his South Berkeley neighborhood. His political philosophy was forming and he was inspired to study at UC Berkeley, gaining a bachelor’s degree in political science followed by a master’s degree in public policy.

 

In 1948, Rumford's political career took off when he was elected to the California State Assembly, representing the 17th district in Berkeley. He recognized that housing discrimination was a fundamental barrier to social mobility and equal opportunity, and set about dismantling these barriers.

 

The Rumford Fair Housing Act, passed in 1963, was a landmark piece of legislation that prohibited discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin, or ancestry.

 

The battle for fair housing was not without setbacks though. In 1964, the California Real Estate Association, (that has since apologized) spearheaded the passage of Proposition 14, a referendum that repealed the Rumford Act. The industry’s shameful action did not dampen Rumford's determination as he helped lay the groundwork for the passage of the federal Fair Housing Act of 1968. Superseding Proposition 14, it established comprehensive fair housing protections nationwide.

 

Rumford returned to his Berkeley neighborhood after retiring from politics in 1976. The William Byron Rumford Medical Clinic is now housed at the site of the family pharmacy. His archives are housed in the Bancroft Library at UC Berkeley, and his likeness is now prominently featured on a statue positioned in Berkeley, on the Sacrament St median facing Ashby.

 

 

 

Listen to this podcast to learn what Byron Rumford’s story can tell us about why racism and real estate are so hard to untangle.

 

 

The real estate community has a big role to play in upholding and strengthening the vision of fair housing. Red Oak enthusiastically embraces this, partnering with local organizations in advocating for housing equity. Our DEI Action Committee is also active in its commitment to infusing diversity, equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging into every aspect of Red Oak. Reach out if you’d like to learn more.