FY27 Proposed Budget

Human Rights

The Office of Human Rights oversees operations and activities related to civil rights. It ensures compliance and enforcement of anti-discrimination laws. The office upholds protections in Title 2 of the Iowa City Municipal Code. It also carries out responsibilities under state and federal law. Core Responsibilities: 1. Enforcing Civil Rights Laws : Investigating and addressing discrimination under local, state, and federal law. 2. Ensuring Compliance : Overseeing adherence to Title 2 of the Iowa City Municipal Code and related regulations. 3. Providing Leadership & Oversight : Managing operations, activities, and initiatives that protect and promote human rights. • Investigations : Investigating complaints of discrimination in housing, employment, public accommodations, and services. • Compliances : Conducting compliance reviews to ensure adherence to civil rights laws and local ordinances. • Education : Providing education and outreach through workshops, trainings, and community events. • Collaboration: Collaborating with community organizations to promote inclusion and access. The office of Human Rights plays a key role in fostering a fair environment by enforcing anti discrimination laws, providing education and outreach, and supporting access and belonging for all residents. 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 which outlined 17 actions to be taken by the City to help address systemic racism. One of the action items included committing $1,000,000 to an account to support local efforts promoting racial equity, 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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