Equal Opportunity in Housing Signing Pen
Artifact IDMO 63.3936
Object Type
Pen
Date
1961-1963
Maker
Esterbrook Pen Company
(English, Founded 1856)
Place MadeUnited States, North America
Medium
plastic; metal
DimensionsOverall L 6 1/4 in (15.9 cm)
Physical DescriptionSteel nib pen with black plastic grip and translucent plastic handle. Written on handle is "The President- The White House". Pen was used by President John F. Kennedy to sign Executive order 11063 for Equal Opportunity in Housing on November 20, 1962, 5:00 pm.
Historical NoteThe Executive Order 11093, Equal Opportunity in Housing prohibited discrimination in the sale, leasing, rental or other disposition of properties and facilites owned or operated by the federal government in preventing desegregating federal assisted housing. It was the first federal action specifically aimed at prohibiting housing discrimination.
In the 1950's and 1960's widespread segregation and discriminatory practices like redlining kept many Blacks and other minorities from accessing decent housing. Kennedy's executive order laid the foundation for fair housing policies, later expanded by President Lyndon B. Johnson in the Civil Rights Act of 1968.
Additional DetailsIn the 1950's and 1960's widespread segregation and discriminatory practices like redlining kept many Blacks and other minorities from accessing decent housing. Kennedy's executive order laid the foundation for fair housing policies, later expanded by President Lyndon B. Johnson in the Civil Rights Act of 1968.
Custodial History NoteThis item is material associated with the White House the Kennedy Administration and the Executive Offices of the President. It was either government property or was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesKennedy Administration Collection 1960-1963 (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
