Human Relations Commission

Promoting human dignity, equal opportunity, mutual respect and harmony

Public Participation

Everyone is invited to attend meetings of the Commission.

If you would like to schedule an appearance before the Commission, contact Marionna Poke-Stewart at 919-996-6100 or marionna.poke-stewart@raleighnc.gov.

Purpose

The Human Relations Commission is an advisory board appointed by the City Council to serve as an advocate for all people, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, martial status, economic status or age in pursuit of human and economic relationships. The Commission promotes activities, education and programs that enhance human dignity, equal opportunity, mutual respect and harmony among Raleigh citizens.

Activities

The Commission sponsors a number of activities that promote diversity and human relations. Among them:

• Human Relations Awards

The annual Human Relations Awards recognize those who make outstanding contributions to advancing human rights in our city. Awards go to individuals, organizations, businesses and students.

• Mayor's Unity Day Celebration

This annual event brings people together to share ideas that enhance understanding of diverse cultures and improve human relations. Community, faith, business and education leaders, along with residents who want to strengthen human relations, come together to learn about diversity, share insights and build an open and inviting community.

• Human Services Grants

The Commission reviews requests from human services agencies seeking grants from the City and makes recommendations to the City Council. The grants are awarded annually to nonprofits that serve the elderly, youth, handicapped, substance abusers and homeless.

• Community Dialogues

The Commission sponsored a series of dialogues in 2010 with the theme of "Many Faces, One Community," that engaged the public in how the City of Raleigh can best serve its increasingly diverse population. The Commission presented a report and recommendations based on the dialogues to the City Council in March 2011.

Members