Volunteers Sought to Serve on the Human Rights Commission. Application Deadline 10-23-23.

What is the Cambridge Human Rights Commission (CHRC)?

CHRC, which was established in 1984, is dedicated to upholding and safeguarding the fundamental human rights of residents and visitors to the city. CHRC works to eradicate discrimination through an investigative process, proactive community outreach, and collaborations with City and community partners. CHRC aims to create an environment where people of diverse backgrounds can live without fear of discrimination based on the following protected classes: race; color; sex; age; religious creed; disability; national origin or ancestry; sexual orientation; gender identity or gender expression; marital status; family status; military status; and source of income.    

Commissioners support staff by working to fulfill the goals and objectives of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission Ordinance, Chapter 2.76 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, which covers discrimination in employment, in places of public accommodation, and in education, and the Cambridge Fair Housing Ordinance, Chapter 14.04 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, which covers discrimination in housing.

What is the role of CHRC?

CHRC is a city law enforcement agency that investigates, mediates, and adjudicates complaints of discrimination in the areas of employment, public accommodations, education, and housing. The CHRC also conducts workshop presentations on fair housing and employment discrimination for community groups, social service agencies, and schools.    

What skills and abilities are needed to serve on CHRC?

The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion and is seeking Cambridge residents who represent the diversity of Cambridge.

Commissioners should have the ability to:

• Participate in a collaborative process;
• Consider diverse ideas and perspectives; and
• Interact and work effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, persons of color, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

When does the Commission meet and what is the term of appointment?

The Commission consists of 11 members appointed to 3-year terms.

• Meetings are typically held on the first Thursday of every month from 6pm - 8pm, though the meeting schedule may be reassessed to accommodate Commissioners’ needs.
• Under the provisions of the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law, meetings are usually required to be in person at 51 Inman Street; although the CHRC has been meeting remotely under the temporary Open Meeting Law provisions established during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• CHRC will continue to utilize remote capabilities whenever public health needs arise. A hybrid option will be available.

What is the time commitment for commissioners?

Commissioners are expected to:

• Attend monthly meetings;
• Participate and volunteer for outreach and public education initiatives, which can include educating businesses, housing providers, and residents;
• Promote the principals of anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and 
• Work with CHRC staff on the investigation, mediation, and resolution of complaints filed with the Commission.  

Do commissioners get compensated for their time?

Board and commission members in Cambridge do not generally receive compensation for their time. However, the city has explored the possibility of offering a stipend for high time commitment boards. Serving on CHRC does not require a high time commitment and therefore is not under consideration for a potential stipend at this time.

What is the application deadline? How do I apply?

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, October 23, 2023.

Applications can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume, or an overview of relevant experience, can be submitted during the online application process. If you have questions about the application process or need assistance, please contact the City Manager's Office at 617-349-4300 or boardsandcommissions@cambridgema.gov. 

For more information, contact Carolina Almonte at 617-349-4396 or calmonte@cambridgema.gov.