Housing discrimination lawsuit against Douglas Elliman

A Black couple, Lisa Renee Olaso and Cyril Christopher, filed a housing discrimination lawsuit in Queens, New York, against real estate agent Helen Tzelios, property owners, and Douglas Elliman Realty. The legal action alleges violations of the Federal Fair Housing Act and local human rights laws following an incident in June.

The lawsuit stems from a text message sent by Tzelios to the plaintiffs that read, “Ugh, they’re Black” or “Aff, they are Black,” which was intended for property owners prior to an apartment viewing. The plaintiffs report that when confronted, the agent cited “previous problems” with Black tenants in the neighborhood.

While the broker reportedly apologized and claimed the message was sent by mistake, the couple reported feeling humiliated and refused to proceed with the apartment visit. The plaintiffs, who were relocating from Delaware for a new job, have since blocked the broker’s contact information.

Douglas Elliman stated it maintains a “zero-tolerance policy for discrimination” and reported that Tzelios was terminated shortly after being served. The plaintiffs are seeking compensatory and punitive damages. The allegations have not been adjudicated in court.