DC Office of Human Rights Newsletter | Volume IV | September 2018
Putting Diversity to Work for DC Residents and Visitors
DC is a melting pot of different ideas, politics, cultures, ethnicities, races, languages and sexual orientations. This diversity defines the city, but also poses a challenge when attempting to reach these communities. Deliberately, OHR's staff reflects the District's diversity, ensuring that we're able to reach all corners of the city with valuable information about protecting rights, as well as about our programs and services. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and African Heritage Month this September, we want to highlight our Language Access Program, which is dedicated to removing language as a barrier to obtaining information and services from the District government. The LA program ensures that government agencies are in compliance, but also work closely with community-based organizations, in addition to the Mayor's Office on Latino Affairs and the Mayor's Office on African Affairs on events and trainings for the public. OHR is committed to making DC the most inclusive city in the world for both residents and visitors. Click on the link below to get valuable Language Access resources, including the "I Speak" cards in more than 10 languages for use when trying to access government services or programs.
Trait of the Month: National Origin
This protected trait makes it unlawful to discriminate against someone based on the country or area where their ancestors are from in the areas of housing, employment, public accommodations, or educational institutions. For more information or to file a complaint, visit our website, ohr.dc.gov .
This Month's Spotlights
The Office of the Tenant Advocate is hosting their 11th Annual Tenant Summit on Saturday, September 29th from 9am until 5pm at Gallaudet University. Make sure to attend if you would like valuable information on tenant laws and rights in the District. OHR will be there informing the public about the various housing laws we enforce. Stop by our table and grab some information.

OHR released the Fiscal Year 2017 Annual Report, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the DC Human Rights Act of 1977. The report highlights new insights on data related to the rate of discrimination complaints received in the District as well as education and prevention efforts .

Director's Note
DC has vibrant Latinx and African populations that continue to grow and contribute to the culture and prosperity of this city. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and African Heritage Month this year, I am reminded of the great leaders and role models like Justice Sonya Sotomayor, Nelson Mandela and countless other unsung heroes. Mothers and fathers who work two or three jobs to support their families and build bridges for their children to live out their dreams. My parents too made tremendous sacrifices for me when they came to the U.S. to start over and I am deeply indebted to them. Now, more than ever, it is important that we protect people, hard-working parents who only want the best for their children. We cannot let hateful rhetoric and destructive national policies change who we are as a city. We are a city that actively protect the rights of all immigrants. Have a great Hispanic Heritage Month and African Heritage Month!

Yours in solidarity,
M รณ nica Palacio, Director
DC Office of Human Rights | 202.727.4559 | ohr.dc.gov