Dear Friends of the District of Columbia,

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty’s vision for our city is to generate prosperity, hope, and safety to every neighborhood in which we work and live in by leveraging the District’s tremendous human capital and potential. We believe in achieving this vision as long as we continue to embrace and celebrate the richness our society presents in terms of diversity, individual values, and cultural beliefs. We are proud to say that as one of the most diverse cities in the world, Washington, D.C. stands at the forefront of human rights by recognizing the inherent dignity and inalienable rights of all people. This is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace.

The District of Columbia Office of Human Rights is charged with the mission of eradicating discrimination, increasing equal opportunity and protecting human rights in the nation’s capital. We are mandated by statute by the citizens and residents of this city to prevent and confront complaints of discrimination by individuals that work, live, receive services, and visit the District. We are afforded this tremendous opportunity because the people of the District and the nation have determined that the violation of human and civil rights is unacceptable and must be eradicated.

Therefore, we hope that your visit to the Office of Human Rights’ website serves you well as you look for information and services. In this website, you will find general information on the Office of Human Rights, as well as the laws, regulations, and procedures that apply to our Office. As a business owner, employee, resident, student, homeowner, and visitor, we want you to stay connected with this Office. We look forward to your visit and we welcome your feedback to make our services better and expand upon our important mission.

Thank you.

Gustavo Velasquez
Director
Office of Human Rights