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Welcome to the Office for Civil Rights Web site For best results using a screen reader, choose the text Only Version. En Español Welcome to the Seattle Office for Civil Rights Web Site. Since 1969, the Seattle Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) has helped make Seattle a city where all people enjoy equal rights, equal opportunity and freedom from illegal discrimination. SOCR is a member of the International Association of Human Rights Agencies (IAOHRA), which works for social justice around the world. Seattle Office for Civil Rights' Mission Applying both federal and local laws, the SOCR addresses illegal discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations and contracting within the Seattle city limits. From filing a charge through the investigation of a case, SOCR provides a forum for resolution and remedies against discriminatory conduct. We also provide policy recommendations to City government and educate the public on civil rights issues. Through our commitment to human rights and dignity, SOCR works to eliminate the practice and vestige of racism and to achieve social justice in our city. Enforce anti-discrimination laws in the City of Seattle in the areas of:
Education- Outreach and Engagement
Commissions Staffs 4 advisory commissions to the City of Seattle. Did your boss fire you after you complained about racist remarks from co-workers? SOCR investigates alleged discrimination in:
Did a landlord refuse to rent to you because you have children? SOCR investigates alleged discrimination in:
Did a hostess, waiter or restaurant owner stop you from bringing in your service animal? SOCR investigates alleged discrimination in:
Did a contractor ignore your bid because you hire non-English speaking workers? SOCR investigates alleged discrimination in:
The law also protects you from harassment and retaliation.
The City of Seattle (City) assures that no person shall on the grounds of race, color, sex, age, disability or national origin, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 (P.L. 100.259) be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. The City further assures every effort will be made to ensure nondiscrimination in all of its programs activities, whether those programs and activities are federally funded or not. In the event that the city distributes federal aid funds to another entity, the City will include Title VI language in all written agreements and will monitor for compliance. The Director of the Seattle Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) is responsible for initiating and monitoring Title VI activities, preparing required reports and other City responsibilities as required by 23 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) 200 and 49 Code of Federal Regulation 21.
Predatory Lending is dishonest lending. Predatory loans harm borrowers by making it difficult or impossible for them to keep up with payments. Borrowers may pay unnecessary fees and excessive interest charges. If they miss their payments, they risk losing their home. Predatory lenders prey on people who are unfamiliar with the banking system. They target seniors, people of color, or anyone whose credit makes it hard to get a regular loan. Not all loans are predatory. Borrowers who do not meet minimum credit standards usually pay higher interest rates. But no one should be a victim of price gouging and outrageous fees. Is it Discrimination?
Danger Bad Loan Ahead!
Fair Loans Fair Housing: Your Guide to Avoiding Predatory Loans
Check the Predatory Lending website information translated to Chinese, Vietnamese, English and Spanish for more information.
The Office for Civil Rights is authorized to receive and to investigate complaints of violations of the Mayor's Executive Order Affirming the Right of All Citizens to Receive City Services Equally.
ADA/City Service Complaint Section 504 The Office for Civil Rights works to ensure that members of the public who have disabilities can use City services and facilities. The Disability Compliance Specialist coordinates accessibility evaluation of City programs and services, offers training to City departments on disability awareness and compliance with laws, staffs the City's 504/ADA Advisory Committee (TBA) and handles 504/ADA grievances alleging discrimination in City programs and facilities.
The Seattle Office for Civil Rights can visit your agency or group to discuss civil rights and services. We offer in-depth workshops on enforcement of anti-discrimination laws. SOCR coordinates numerous events on behalf of the City of Seattle (such as Human Rights Day and Take Our Daughters to Work Day), as well as special events throughout the year. SOCR offers an array of brochures, fact sheets and posters covering SOCR's services. Many of these materials are available in translation. We also offer resources on issues such as women's rights, access for people with disabilities, the rights of sexual minorities, etc. For more information call (206) 684-4507.
Staffs 4 advisory commissions to the City of Seattle:
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