Council News Release

Councilmember Bruce A. Harrell

City of Seattle seeking candidates for Human Rights Commission

Seattle – The Seattle Human Rights Commission is seeking to fill five 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, Section 8 status, and retaliation. 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 Harrell. "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 in 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, lobbying the state legislature, 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, send a letter of interest and resume to felicia.yearwood@seattle.gov by May 31, 2012.

Or mail to: Felicia Yearwood
Seattle Human Rights Commission
810 Third Avenue, Suite 750
Seattle, WA 98104-1627

The City is committed to promoting diversity in its commissions. Women, people with disabilities, youth, sexual minorities, and people of color are encouraged to apply.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.