FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 7/31/2014
Councilmember Bruce Harrell
Councilmember Harrell Seeks Candidates for Human Rights Commission
Seattle – The Seattle Human Rights Commission is seeking applicants to fill vacant Commissioner positions. The Commission advises the Mayor and City Council on human rights and social justice issues.
The Commission works with the Director of the Office for Civil Rights to end discrimination based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, political ideology, ancestry, age, marital and parental status, disability and Section 8 status. The Commission works to have an impact on the lives of people in Seattle through its policy work and community outreach.
"I am proud to work with the City’s Human Rights Commission," said Councilmember Bruce Harrell, chair of the Public Safety, Civil Rights and Technology Committee. "The Commission continues to play a vital role in hearing discrimination appeals and shaping the City’s dialogue on human rights for all Seattle residents."
Participation on the Commission requires a minimum time commitment of 10-15 hours per month. This includes attendance at monthly meetings held the first Thursday of each month in the evening, participation in committee work, meeting with City departments, communicating with state legislators and addressing human rights concerns.
The Commission also hears and adjudicates appeals of discrimination cases from the Seattle Office for Civil Rights. Commissioners are appointed to two-year terms and all appointments are subject to confirmation by the Seattle City Council. Commissioners must reside within the City of Seattle. The Commission is particularly interested in applicants with backgrounds in human rights, education, law, public policy and advocacy. Commissioners serve without compensation.
To be considered, email a letter of interest, resume and SHRC application to marta.idowu@seattle.gov by August 25, 2014. The SHRC application is available at www.seattle.gov/humanrights/archive.htm or by request made to marta.idowu@seattle.gov.
The City is committed to promoting diversity in its commissions. Women, people with disabilities, youth, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, immigrants and people of color are encouraged to apply. All are welcome.