Item B: HRC - Recommendations from HR Listening Project

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cases extending beyond 180 days, the Office must seek approval by the Commission to continue working on the case. Mediation Program: provides parties with an alternative to the traditional discrimination complaint investigation process. The Alexandria Office of Human Rights has a mediation agreement with the Human Rights Commission in Prince William County, whereby a PWC investigator trained in mediation can mediate claims. Roughly 40% of cases are settled in mediation or alternative dispute resolution. Commission: 14 members appointed by City Council; 9 citizens “at large”, 5 each represent the Commission on Aging, the Economic Opportunities Commission, the Commission on Persons with Disabilities, and the Commission for Women and the Landlord Tenant Relations Board. Appointment/Recruitment Process: City Council appointments. The Human Rights Office provides information regarding all available positions for Boards and Commissions but has no part or impact in the appointment process. Requirements are limited to city residence. Primary Functions: Advisory role to the Mayor and City Council. This relationship is very active; the Council looks to the HRC for regular legislative input. Each summer the Commission drafts legislative initiatives that are then submitted to City Council via the office Director. Council and the Commission collaborate to refine Human Rights legislation before sending it to Richmond for consideration on the state level (where according to the current Director, it often dies). The Commission is very active in research and investigation of social conditions that give rise to discrimination. To this end, they hold public hearings, produce literature and facilitate public panels on emerging local issues. They just recently held a panel on age discrimination in employment that was well received and attended. They are also regularly invited to attend community meetings and “town hall” style discussions. This week they are invited to a community center discussion regarding recent racial tension in the area. The Commission also has a formal relationship with the Police Department; they review all internal police complaints and are automatically contacted for hate crimes or possible hate crimes. Additionally, all high-profile cases are sent to the Commission who then advises the Police Chief on human rights implications present in the case. Strengths of the Program: According to the current Director, because the city of Alexandria is politically progressive and has a legacy of innovation in civil and human rights, their program is able to continue to challenge the government to do the work better. The Commission has been successful in rooting themselves in the community and maintaining a presence in community issues which strengthens their political leverage. The Commission has a good reputation within the City organization and has developed strong working relationships which help them to leverage their influence in other departments and within the City government. Challenges: Resources. For the size of the city, it is a relatively small office and has faced budget cuts in recent years. Specifically, they lack sufficient education and outreach resources. 9 | Page