Cambridge Code of Ordinances ch. 2.76 § 2.76.160
City discrimination policy
Operative Text
A. Any practice that by design or effect discriminates against individuals, because of race, color, sex, age, religious creed, disability, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, relationship status, family structure, gender identity, marital status, family status, military status or source of income is of public concern, as such discrimination creates strife, hostility and unrest, threatens or impairs the rights and privileges of individuals and deprives individuals of the benefits of a free and open society. Discrimination that deprives individuals of equal opportunities is unjust and results in serious injury to the public safety, health and welfare of the City. B. Accordingly, it is the policy of the City to safeguard the equal opportunities of all individuals in the City in accordance with their abilities, regardless of their race, color, sex, age, religious creed, disability, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, relationship status, family structure, gender identity, marital status, family status, military status or source of income and to prevent discrimination against such individuals in the provision of City services and in employment, housing and real estate, education, credit, bonding, insurance and public accommodations. C. Further, it is the policy of the City to encourage harmony and mutual respect among its inhabitants and visitors and to reduce tensions and strife caused by discrimination.
Cambridge Code of Ordinances ch. 2.76 § 2.76.160 establishes the City's foundational stance that discriminatory practices — whether intentional or merely in their effect — harm the broader community and undermine public safety, health, and welfare. The provision identifies a broad set of protected characteristics, including race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, family status, military status, and source of income, among others. It commits the City to protecting equal opportunity across housing, employment, education, credit, and public accommodations, and to fostering mutual respect among residents and visitors alike.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Cambridge should be aware that ch. 2.76 § 2.76.160 reflects a City policy that covers not only intentional discrimination but also practices that produce a discriminatory effect, across a notably wide range of protected characteristics including source of income and family structure. Compliant operators generally review their tenant screening criteria, advertising, and lease terms to ensure none of these characteristics serve as a basis for differential treatment. Because this provision applies to housing specifically, operators familiar with its scope are better positioned to align their day-to-day practices with Cambridge's equal-opportunity requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Cambridge Code of Ordinances ch. 2.76 § 2.76.160, renters in Cambridge are entitled to equal treatment in housing regardless of characteristics such as race, disability, gender identity, source of income, or family status, among others covered by the provision. Tenants who believe a landlord's policy or practice has treated them unequally — even if not by explicit intent — may have grounds to raise that concern through the Cambridge Human Rights Commission or another appropriate local body. Tenant-rights organizations in Cambridge can help individuals understand how this policy interacts with other local and state fair-housing protections.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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