Welcome to the Seattle Human Rights Commission Web site

The Seattle Human Rights Commission was established in 1963 to advocate for justice and equal opportunity, to advise the City of Seattle on human rights issues and to collaborate with public and private sectors in order to educate them on methods to prevent and eliminate discrimination city-wide.

The Human Rights Commission consists of 15 representative citizens of Seattle appointed by the Mayor and City Council to serve in an advisory capacity to the Mayor, City Council, Seattle Office for Civil Rights, and other Seattle City departments in matters affecting human rights. Seven commissioners are appointed by the Mayor, and seven appointments are made by the City Council. The Commission appoints the 15th member. Commissioners are appointed to a two year term of office and serve without pay. It is a goal of the Commission to recruit people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. The current Commission has representation from the African American, Asian, Caucasian, Gay & Lesbian, Hispanic, Native American, and Disability communities. Commissioners are required to live within the Seattle city limits.

The Seattle Office for Civil Rights provides staff and support to the Commission.