Human Relations Division

The Human Relations Division is a civil rights enforcement agency. It investigates complaints from persons alleging they have been discriminated against in employment, housing, or public accommodations because of race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, or familial status. This Division provides education and outreach for the City’s anti-discrimination law. The Human Relations Commission serves as the advisory board for the agency. If you believe you have been discriminated against, you can submit an Intake Discrimination Complaint form online. You may also read the Human Relations ordinance here (PDF, 134 KB).

The Lawrence City Commission expanded protections against discrimination in housing on February 14, 2023, with the passage of Ordinance No. 9960. This ordinance prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of a person’s source of income or immigration status, and provides protections to persons who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or stalking. The ordinance also prohibits discrimination based on immigration status in public accommodation. The law goes into effect on June 1, 2023. More information on the Source of Income Discrimination page.