Abstract: A mounting mechanism is provided for attaching a diffuser to a fluorescent lighting fixture. The mounting mechanism is coupled to the diffuser and includes an elongated latch member and an elongated second member. Each member of the mechanism is pivotally coupled to an end of the diffuser in a spaced apart relationship. The members are coupled to each other via a spring connected to each member below the member's pivotal point. The second member may also be a latch member of may be a hinge member. Each latch member penetrates a notch formed through the housing socket plate and latches on an upper surface of the socket plate. Each hinge member includes a hook portion having a tip. The hook portion penetrates a first notch formed on the socket plate in a first direction while the tip portion penetrates a second opening adjacent the first opening in a second direction opposite the first direction thereby hooking on the socket plate.