I had missed that very thoughtful OpEd from Inman. Interesting that she believes I should experience ‘professional consequences’ for being a woman of faith and a conservative. I reckon I’ll just be over here praying for her while I carry on.
1,000,000,000% agree with this post. You had me at the start, but especially with your honest comment: "If NAR wants to classify the Bible as harassing speech or hate speech, it should do so explicitly. The Christian members of NAR deserve to know where their trade organization stands. After that, NAR probably should articulate its opinions on the Quran and the Hadith as well."
OK, you are too valuable so I had to subscribe. I completely agree with your ongoing commentary about article 10-5 and strongly feel it is being used against conservative Christians for speech which is, other than with NAR, protected speech. I have been highly active in the industry, but think we made an unplanned sharp turn in the road.
I have met Leigh Brown in person several times - anything she does comes from her heart. That someone would criticize her for actually taking her own time and helping others, in the name of NAR no less, is absolutely deplorable. REPEAL 10-5.
Literally two minutes after I hit publish, I received this email from Bettie Plecker of GAAR:
The Virginia Association of REALTORS (VAR) handles Professional Standards matters for the Greater Augusta Association of REALTORS (GAAR) and has primary responsibility for administration of enforcement procedures concerning the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Consequently, GAAR does not receive and resolve complaints against a REALTOR.
Furthermore, pursuant to Statement 19 (Confidentiality of determinations rendered in ethics and arbitration hearings) of the Statements of Professional Standards Policy, “(t)he allegations, findings, and decisions rendered in ethics and arbitration hearings are confidential and should not be reported or published by the Board, any member of a tribunal, or any party under any circumstances except those established in the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual of the (NAR) as from time to time amended.”
GAAR will issue no further comment on this matter.
Maybe NAR should spend more time enforcing their actual rules--like making sure brokers don't lie to people--rather than going after a Bible verse as hate speech.
Whoa, slow your roll, Rob! Your post disintegrates into some all-Christians-are-victims-but-Donnie-Elon-and-Vivek-will-put-it-right hysteria. (That's laughable, btw, and you know it.) There's nothing wrong with public civility, lack of harassment and enforcement of such. We expect better from you and we pay for it, too.
Why would we accept NAR being in our places of worship? Remember, most NAR members are compelled to join and are not choosing to be a REALTOR voluntarily. So the argument that NAR is a private orgnization that can set rules for its members, while true, becomes weak when membership is mandatory (for the majority of the country) just to be able to access the MLS. Do I think the speech code is stupid? Absolutely. Do I think a private organization can make this a requirement for membership? Yes. But only if being a REALTOR is a voluntary choice -- this is what must change.
While I respect everyone’s right to share their beliefs, I feel it’s important to consider the impact of how religious texts (bible verses) are used in public discourse, especially when they target marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community. Sharing Bible verses to express negative opinions about LGBTQ+ people goes beyond personal belief—it reinforces harmful stereotypes and contributes to a culture of stigma and exclusion. Freedom of speech is vital, but so is recognizing the harm that can come from using religion to justify hostility or discrimination. The intent might not always be hateful, but the effect on those targeted is often dehumanizing and alienating. I believe we have a responsibility to engage in discussions that promote understanding and unity rather than division or harm. With that said, if the post was made prior to rules being enacted then it should not be investigated. It is in my personal opinion that NAR does more good than harm. I believe reform is needed, but they are not the bad guys..
You should be as free to say that Bible verses reinforces harmful stereotypes, as a Christian should be free to share them.
We do have a responsibility to engage in discussions, but that requires freedom of speech, not silencing. You should be able to fiercely criticize Wilson or any Christian or Muslim or anyone you'd like for that matter, without worrying about losing your livelihood. You should be able to voice your opinion that sharing Bible verses goes beyond personal belief.
Sorry, but NAR are the bad guys if they are the ones doing the silencing.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, but I believe it’s important to look at this issue in the broader context of our profession and the standards we need to uphold as REALTORS®.
Right now, REALTORS® are under more scrutiny than ever, especially with the recent lawsuits and growing consumer distrust. It’s no secret that public perception of our profession has shifted over the years. When I started in real estate 20 years ago, it felt as if we had zero level of respect for what we do. i personally saw a shift in public perception because of NAR and our local board enforcement of standards of conduct. Unfortunately, many consumers today question whether REALTORS® are truly committed to professionalism and fairness.
I see NAR’s Code of Ethics—and specifically Standard of Practice 10-5—as an effort to address this and raise the bar for our industry. It’s about demonstrating to the public that REALTORS® are professionals who treat all people with respect and fairness, regardless of personal beliefs. By holding ourselves accountable to these ethical standards, we not only protect clients from potential harm but also work to rebuild the trust that has eroded over these lawsuits.
I think it also worth noting that many professions with similar responsibilities—like lawyers, doctors, and even teachers—have codes of ethics that regulate behavior beyond just the legal minimum. These standards ensure those professions maintain their credibility and public trust. I certainly wouldn’t want to see any of those professions abandon their codes of ethics in the name of free speech. I don’t want to walk in doctor’s office and/or see social media post from them on: Timothy 2:12
“I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.”The bible is full of fun verses that discriminate and can feel to the reader like hate. I don’t see a reason why our industry should be held to a lower standardUltimately, I don’t think NAR’s goal is to silence REALTORS®. Instead, I believe it’s about ensuring our actions, both online and offline, reflect the values of professionalism, respect, and fairness that consumers expect from us. In the end, this isn’t just about protecting clients—it’s about protecting and elevating our profession as a whole.
In my personal opinion, I just think this comes from many, not feeling that they don’t have a choice in their membership. If you joined the membership, you adopt the rules. It’s as simple as that. It all comes back to the MLS if the MLS wasn’t a part of the board what would membership look like? I personally would still be a member of NAR because as I mentioned above, I’ve seen the value it has brought to our profession. Sorry for long response but not an easy topic to cover quickly.
I've never witnessed an organization trying to destroy themselves as much as NAR is doing.
You'd think with damage NAR caused to our industry (not to mention they cost brokerages over $600 MILLION in fines) they'd be eliminating any rules that would cause members to want to immediately abandon ship.
NAR: We're not worried, Steve, because if our members want MLS access they'll have to put up with our biased bullshit. [fiction]
Lol...yeah, NAR? Well, the Phoenix train has just arrived and there are a shit ton of trains right behind them.
The 'hate speech' by Brandon and Brown is just ridiculous - it wasn't hate speech.
All it will take is one Snowflake...er, I mean....Realtor to be offended by a previous conversation ANYWHERE on social media by another Realtor that 1) is not remotely close to hate speech and/or 2) is a personal conversation that has absolutely nothing to do with real estate...to have their life in turmoil while the state investigates.
What a stupid process.... all based on the disguise of 'freedom of speech'...and it's not limited to Christians.
I agree with this quote I read recently in another blog: "The DOJ may very well grab NAR by the pussy and force some common sense down their throats instead of the Kool-Aid they are currently drinking."
I had missed that very thoughtful OpEd from Inman. Interesting that she believes I should experience ‘professional consequences’ for being a woman of faith and a conservative. I reckon I’ll just be over here praying for her while I carry on.
I know Leigh. She is one of the most selfless giving people who I have ever met.
1,000,000,000% agree with this post. You had me at the start, but especially with your honest comment: "If NAR wants to classify the Bible as harassing speech or hate speech, it should do so explicitly. The Christian members of NAR deserve to know where their trade organization stands. After that, NAR probably should articulate its opinions on the Quran and the Hadith as well."
OK, you are too valuable so I had to subscribe. I completely agree with your ongoing commentary about article 10-5 and strongly feel it is being used against conservative Christians for speech which is, other than with NAR, protected speech. I have been highly active in the industry, but think we made an unplanned sharp turn in the road.
I have met Leigh Brown in person several times - anything she does comes from her heart. That someone would criticize her for actually taking her own time and helping others, in the name of NAR no less, is absolutely deplorable. REPEAL 10-5.
Literally two minutes after I hit publish, I received this email from Bettie Plecker of GAAR:
The Virginia Association of REALTORS (VAR) handles Professional Standards matters for the Greater Augusta Association of REALTORS (GAAR) and has primary responsibility for administration of enforcement procedures concerning the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Consequently, GAAR does not receive and resolve complaints against a REALTOR.
Furthermore, pursuant to Statement 19 (Confidentiality of determinations rendered in ethics and arbitration hearings) of the Statements of Professional Standards Policy, “(t)he allegations, findings, and decisions rendered in ethics and arbitration hearings are confidential and should not be reported or published by the Board, any member of a tribunal, or any party under any circumstances except those established in the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual of the (NAR) as from time to time amended.”
GAAR will issue no further comment on this matter.
Of course...
Maybe NAR should spend more time enforcing their actual rules--like making sure brokers don't lie to people--rather than going after a Bible verse as hate speech.
Preach, brother...
I agree with you. I think it is time Christians stand up for our religious rights.
Whoa, slow your roll, Rob! Your post disintegrates into some all-Christians-are-victims-but-Donnie-Elon-and-Vivek-will-put-it-right hysteria. (That's laughable, btw, and you know it.) There's nothing wrong with public civility, lack of harassment and enforcement of such. We expect better from you and we pay for it, too.
Why would we accept NAR being in our places of worship? Remember, most NAR members are compelled to join and are not choosing to be a REALTOR voluntarily. So the argument that NAR is a private orgnization that can set rules for its members, while true, becomes weak when membership is mandatory (for the majority of the country) just to be able to access the MLS. Do I think the speech code is stupid? Absolutely. Do I think a private organization can make this a requirement for membership? Yes. But only if being a REALTOR is a voluntary choice -- this is what must change.
While I respect everyone’s right to share their beliefs, I feel it’s important to consider the impact of how religious texts (bible verses) are used in public discourse, especially when they target marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community. Sharing Bible verses to express negative opinions about LGBTQ+ people goes beyond personal belief—it reinforces harmful stereotypes and contributes to a culture of stigma and exclusion. Freedom of speech is vital, but so is recognizing the harm that can come from using religion to justify hostility or discrimination. The intent might not always be hateful, but the effect on those targeted is often dehumanizing and alienating. I believe we have a responsibility to engage in discussions that promote understanding and unity rather than division or harm. With that said, if the post was made prior to rules being enacted then it should not be investigated. It is in my personal opinion that NAR does more good than harm. I believe reform is needed, but they are not the bad guys..
You should be as free to say that Bible verses reinforces harmful stereotypes, as a Christian should be free to share them.
We do have a responsibility to engage in discussions, but that requires freedom of speech, not silencing. You should be able to fiercely criticize Wilson or any Christian or Muslim or anyone you'd like for that matter, without worrying about losing your livelihood. You should be able to voice your opinion that sharing Bible verses goes beyond personal belief.
Sorry, but NAR are the bad guys if they are the ones doing the silencing.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, but I believe it’s important to look at this issue in the broader context of our profession and the standards we need to uphold as REALTORS®.
Right now, REALTORS® are under more scrutiny than ever, especially with the recent lawsuits and growing consumer distrust. It’s no secret that public perception of our profession has shifted over the years. When I started in real estate 20 years ago, it felt as if we had zero level of respect for what we do. i personally saw a shift in public perception because of NAR and our local board enforcement of standards of conduct. Unfortunately, many consumers today question whether REALTORS® are truly committed to professionalism and fairness.
I see NAR’s Code of Ethics—and specifically Standard of Practice 10-5—as an effort to address this and raise the bar for our industry. It’s about demonstrating to the public that REALTORS® are professionals who treat all people with respect and fairness, regardless of personal beliefs. By holding ourselves accountable to these ethical standards, we not only protect clients from potential harm but also work to rebuild the trust that has eroded over these lawsuits.
I think it also worth noting that many professions with similar responsibilities—like lawyers, doctors, and even teachers—have codes of ethics that regulate behavior beyond just the legal minimum. These standards ensure those professions maintain their credibility and public trust. I certainly wouldn’t want to see any of those professions abandon their codes of ethics in the name of free speech. I don’t want to walk in doctor’s office and/or see social media post from them on: Timothy 2:12
“I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.”The bible is full of fun verses that discriminate and can feel to the reader like hate. I don’t see a reason why our industry should be held to a lower standardUltimately, I don’t think NAR’s goal is to silence REALTORS®. Instead, I believe it’s about ensuring our actions, both online and offline, reflect the values of professionalism, respect, and fairness that consumers expect from us. In the end, this isn’t just about protecting clients—it’s about protecting and elevating our profession as a whole.
In my personal opinion, I just think this comes from many, not feeling that they don’t have a choice in their membership. If you joined the membership, you adopt the rules. It’s as simple as that. It all comes back to the MLS if the MLS wasn’t a part of the board what would membership look like? I personally would still be a member of NAR because as I mentioned above, I’ve seen the value it has brought to our profession. Sorry for long response but not an easy topic to cover quickly.
I've never witnessed an organization trying to destroy themselves as much as NAR is doing.
You'd think with damage NAR caused to our industry (not to mention they cost brokerages over $600 MILLION in fines) they'd be eliminating any rules that would cause members to want to immediately abandon ship.
NAR: We're not worried, Steve, because if our members want MLS access they'll have to put up with our biased bullshit. [fiction]
Lol...yeah, NAR? Well, the Phoenix train has just arrived and there are a shit ton of trains right behind them.
The 'hate speech' by Brandon and Brown is just ridiculous - it wasn't hate speech.
All it will take is one Snowflake...er, I mean....Realtor to be offended by a previous conversation ANYWHERE on social media by another Realtor that 1) is not remotely close to hate speech and/or 2) is a personal conversation that has absolutely nothing to do with real estate...to have their life in turmoil while the state investigates.
What a stupid process.... all based on the disguise of 'freedom of speech'...and it's not limited to Christians.
I agree with this quote I read recently in another blog: "The DOJ may very well grab NAR by the pussy and force some common sense down their throats instead of the Kool-Aid they are currently drinking."
One could only hope.