The Human Rights Department helps residents understand and exercise their human rights under New York State Human Rights Law. We address discrimination complaints and work directly with residents seeking support.
We partner with the volunteer Human Rights Commission to prevent discrimination and promote a culture of respect for all individuals.
File a Human Rights Complaint
If you feel you have been unlawfully discriminated against based on your race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, marital or familial status, age or arrest/conviction record, you can file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission. The law protects you in areas such as employment, education, credit, and purchasing or renting a home or commercial space.
Our Work
We assist with filing human rights complaints, whether with our office or the New York State Division. We encourage resolution through consultation, mediation, and restorative justice practices. Cases that cannot be resolved through these mechanisms may be referred to a hearing officer or to the Office of the NYS Attorney General. We also provide support by identifying resources and recommendations for informal complaints or situations that may not amount to discrimination but still need assistance.
During our monthly meetings with the 11 appointed members of the UC Human Rights Commission, we gain diverse perspectives on filed complaints to collectively determine the best course of action.
Our commitment extends to organizing, hosting, and attending events that promote Human Rights awareness through education and training. Additionally, we show support through participation in outreach efforts on critical topics such as housing, diversity, discrimination, mental health, employment, and youth development.
Human Rights Law
Human Rights Law in NYS states that every citizen has an “equal opportunity to enjoy a full and productive life.” This law protects you from discrimination in areas such as employment, education, credit, and purchasing or renting a home or commercial space based on your:
- Race
- Creed
- Color
- National origin
- Sexual orientation
- Military status
- Sex
- Age
- Marital status
- Domestic violence victim status
- Disability
- Pregnancy-related condition
- Predisposing genetic characteristics
- Prior arrest or conviction record
- Gender Identity or Expression
- Familial status
- Lawful source of income (in housing only)
- Retaliation for opposing unlawful discriminatory practices