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HRC Fact Sheet

Mailing Address: Human Rights Commission

825 Fifth Street, Eureka, Ca 95501

Phone: 707-268-2548
(Voice Mail only, not for crisis intervention)

Meetings:
First Thursday of each month in
Humboldt County Courthouse conference rm. A
at 5 p.m.

History and Organization

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors created the Human Rights Commission in October 1965. Its authority and purpose was established by Ordinance # 530. It has been amended by Ordinances # 1023 in 1975, # 1444 in 1981 and #2177 in 1999. The role of the Human Rights Commission was greatly expanded in 2001 with the passage of Senate Bill 381. This bill modified the language of State law regarding human rights commissions and greatly expanded their purpose and scope.

Commission members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors and are chosen on the basis of their interest and concern for human rights.

The Commission has fifteen members, three members appointed by each Supervisor. Commissioners serve staggered four-year terms.
Member Roster\Terms

Purpose:

The Commission was initially established to aid in the eradication of discrimination in the county specifically in cases of employment, public services and housing. SB 381 expanded the purpose to include discrimination based on race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, civic interest, or other factors.

The Board of Supervisors recognizes that discrimination is harmful to those discriminated against, and is ultimately harmful to the County as a whole.

Acting on that belief, the Board established the Human Rights Commission, “to be their eyes and ears in matters of human rights.”

Responsibilities:

1. Prepare an annual report to the Board of Supervisors on the state of human rights in Humboldt

County.
2. Investigate complaints of human rights violations.
3. Educate the citizens of Humboldt County concerning human rights
4. Co-sponsor public events to gather information and opinion.

Relevant Laws, Codes, and Policies:

1. By-laws of the Humboldt Human Rights Commission
2. Summary of California Code

3. Brown Act (Public Meetings)

4. HRC Standing Policy on Public Positions

revised 6/05

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