FY26 Proposed Budget

Equity & Human Rights

The Office of Equity & Human Rights focuses on enforcing anti-discrimination laws and advancing equity, inclusion, belonging, and access. Here's a breakdown of its core functions and activities: Core Responsibilities: 1. Enforcement of Anti-Discrimination Laws : The office investigates complaints of unlawful discrimination within the city, making determinations about probable cause and ensuring adherence to anti-discrimination regulations. 2. Program Development and Implementation : It develops and implements various programs, workshops, and tools aimed at promoting equity, inclusion, belonging, and access both within city departments and in the wider community. 3. Support for Commissions : The office provides staff support to the Human Rights Commission aiding in its operations and initiatives. Equity Strategies : Collaborates with city departments to formulate and execute justice-oriented equity strategies that are not only effective but also measurable and sustainable. • Workshops and Newsletter : Hosts a monthly workshop and publishes the city’s newsletter called The Lens . • Training Programs : Offers educational training on various topics including unlawful discrimination, Iowa’s civil rights history, and methods for advancing equity within government operations. The Office of Equity & Human Rights plays a critical role in fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment by addressing discrimination issues, educating the public and city staff, and supporting ongoing efforts towards justice and reconciliation. General Fund Activities: •

• The Black Lives Matter activity accounts for funds allocated by City Council on June 16, 2020 City Council passed Resolution 20-159, outlining 17 actions to be taken by the City to address the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement and systemic racism. One of the action items included committing $1,000,000 to local efforts promoting racial equity and social justice including the development of a new affordable housing plan and the creation of an Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission to carry out restorative justice.

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