§ A-211. Human Rights Commission.

A. 

Established. There shall be a Human Rights Commission consisting of 11 members. The Commissioners shall, as far as it is practicable, be selected so as to ensure representation from those classes protected under state and federal law, including but not limited to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or public benefit status.

B. 

Authorities and responsibilities. The Human Rights Commission has the authority to initiate and conduct hearings, and conduct investigations into the existence of unlawful discrimination or denial of equal access to housing, employment, education, public accommodations, services and facilities affecting any group or individual on the basis of his or her race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or public benefit status. It may attempt to resolve disputes through the use of mediation and may report to the Mayor on any matters that cannot be resolved through mediation. The Commission has the authority to refer matters to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination for enforcement. The Commission does not hear complaints alleging discrimination on the part of any City agency or official.

C. 

The Human Rights Commission is a ministerial and advisory multiple-member body of the City.

D. 

It is the policy of the City of Melrose to uphold the human rights of all persons in Melrose and the free exercise and enjoyment of any rights and privileges secured by the Constitutions and laws of the United States and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This policy shall ensure equal opportunity to each person regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital, family or military status, source of income or disability where unlawful discrimination exists in housing, employment, education, public accommodations, City services, insurance, banking, credit and health care.

[Added 12-15-2014 by Order No. 2015-72]

Amended 12-15-2014 by Order No. 2015-72