Today Champaign’s Human Relations Commission stands united with other human rights organizations across the country in a nationwide effort to protect human rights, fight discrimination, and promote inclusion and community unity.
“Our society is built upon the principles of equal rights and opportunities for all,” said Commission Chair Alissia Young. “Recent events across the country have demonstrated a rise in discrimination based on an individual’s national origin, ethnicity, or religion. The Human Relations Commission wants to reassure residents that this is unacceptable in our community and that there are resources available to help anyone who feels they’ve been discriminated against.”
The Human Relations Commission provides guidance to residents by raising awareness of the City’s Human Rights Ordinance and working with others to end discrimination in all forms. The Commission also works collaboratively with the community to promote unity, dispel fear, and promote positive community activities.
The City of Champaign’s Human Rights Ordinance prohibits discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodations, and lending/credit on the basis of age, sex, race, color, creed, religion, education, physical or mental disability, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, sexual preference, family responsibilities, source of income, prior arrest or conviction record.
Young adds, “The Human Relations Commission is responsible for the promotion of equal rights and opportunities in the City of Champaign. We are proud of our inclusive community that is friendly and welcoming to all our residents and visitors. The standard in this community is not to simply tolerate our diversity, but to embrace it.”
The City’s Community Relations Office works with the Commission to ensure everyone in Champaign is treated in a fair, equal, and inclusive manner. Those who feel they have been discriminated against are encouraged to contact the Community Relations Office at 217-403-8830.
The Human Relations Commission meets on the first Monday of each month. Their next meeting is at 5:30 p.m. on June 5, 2017, in Champaign’s City Council Chambers (102 N Neil Street, Champaign).
Media Contact: Alissia Young – 217-766-7294, Kenton Elmore – 217-377-9198