Human Rights Commission

The Westchester County Human Rights Commission seeks to promote dignity and respect by advancing justice, equality and education for the diverse community of Westchester.

Headed by Delores Scott Brathwaite, commissioner, the commission strives:

  • to eliminate discrimination locally and globally through legal, educational and legislative advocacy;
  • investigate, uncover and prosecute standard as well as systemic violations of the Human Rights Law and related laws;
  • enable and support legislation designed to protect individuals from unfair and/or unequal treatment and seek the repeal of those laws that create barriers to fair and equal treatment;
  • provide education and advocacy that fosters racial and ethnic harmony among diverse individuals and groups; and
  • promote and support the furtherance of Human Rights in employment, housing, public accommodation, schools, credit and any other area.

 

Upcoming events for education and outreach

Sign up for our upcoming Lunch and Learn series starting Oct. 1 or if you are a senior or caregiver to a senior, learn more about the 10th annual Senior Law Day. It's all outlined in upcoming events:

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Filing a Complaint
If you think that your rights have been violated in Westchester County because of discrimination, you should contact the Human Rights Commission. In some cases you may be referred to other local human rights agencies to file a complaint.

The Westchester County Human Rights Commission office will make sure you receive timely and confidential assistance. .
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Westchester County Human Rights Law
The Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination based on actual or perceived differences, including those based on race, color, religion, ethnicity, creed, age, national origin, alienage or citizenship status, familial status, gender, marital status, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual orientation or disability.

Such discriminatory acts are prohibited in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodation and credit.
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Fair Housing

A person has the right to live in the home of his or her choice and that he or she can afford. The Fair Housing Laws and Fair Lending Laws make it illegal for any persons involved in your housing search to discriminate against you.

This includes advertisers, appraisers, bankers and home inspectors. They are all required to give equal treatment to all homeseekers.
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Human Rights Commission Members
The Westchester County Human Rights Commission meets the first Wednesday of every month at 6 pm. Please call our office for the location. All meetings are open to the public.

View the current list of members. 
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