The Grand Central Library recently hosted a representative from the NYC Commission on Human Rights, who came to discuss what this government agency actually does. We all learned they do a lot of incredible work! The information was just too good not to share, so I've written notes for everyone to see.

What Is the NYC Commission on Human Rights?

The Commission is actually a law enforcement agency that deals with any type of discrimination against those in protected classes. Interesting side note: A person's natural hairstyle is a newly protected class that prohibits employer discrimination. Another little-known fact is that those using Section 8 vouchers for the majority of their rent should not be subject to credit and financial discrimination from landlords.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

To file a discrimination complaint, call the Commission at (718) 722-3131. If nobody answers, do not be discouraged. Simply leave a message and someone will return your call.

You may also file a complaint via their website. You will speak with someone to determine jurisdiction and will then meet with an attorney. All services are free and you will not accrue legal fees. If possible, the Commission will attempt to rectify the injustice through mediation and conflict resolution before court.

There is an investigative wing to the Commission that will help you uncover relevant evidence, and a policy wing that is always working to expand the law. A new achievement of this latter group is the expansion of time allowed to report sexual harassment discrimination, from one year to three years. Another accomplishment is the Fair Chance Act, which protects those with a criminal history looking for employment.

Public pressure is important to getting new policy changes. For example, one group currently experiencing issues is older women living in rent-stabilized apartments, and it can be tricky to prove discrimination based on age. However, the more an issue is reported the more awareness it will receive. 

If you're being discriminated against, the Commission on Human Rights is not your only option but it is New York City-based and dedicated to getting immediate results for immediate issues. Violators of your rights may be fined, sent to mandatory training, and/or monitored for future offenses. The policy wing also monitors other government agencies for misconduct.

When in doubt, file a complaint!

Want to learn more? See the NYC Commision on Human Rights protected classes fact sheet.