Our Mission:

To eliminate unlawful discrimination through education, mediation, and enforcement that is responsive to a diverse King County.

Enforcement

The Office of Civil Rights investigates and resolves complaints of discrimination, provides education, and offers technical assistance. We work as impartial fact-finders. OCR does not represent any party.

Enforcement brochure  (PDF)
Fair employment
Fair housing
Public accommodations (discrimination in places of business)
Fair contracting practices
File a discrimination complaint with OCR.

Disability Access and Compliance

The Office of Civil Rights helps to make King County government programs, facilities and services accessible to people with disabilities. Members of the public who feel they have not been able to access facilities or services may contact the Disability Compliance Specialist for information about their rights, referral to information or advocacy resources, or to file an access grievance.

Title VI

As a recipient of federal funds, King County government complies with federal laws which prohibit discrimination against people because of their race, color or national origin, and in some cases, sex, age or low income status. The Office of Civil Rights is a Title VI compliance resource to county agencies, and investigates public complaints alleging Title VI violations by the county.

Civil Rights Commission

The Civil Rights Commission takes a leadership role on civil rights issues, and raises community awareness and involvement on civil rights issues and advises the King County Executive and King County Council on matters related to the county's civil rights programs.

Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Advisory Committee

The Section 504/ADA Advisory Committee plays a vital role in providing input to King County. The Committee serves in an advisory capacity to the executive and reviews and monitors the affirmative action progress made in the employment of persons with disabilities in the county's workforce.

Quick links

OCR Map & Directions

File a discrimination complaint with OCR

Free drop-in information sessions

Free fair housing workshops

Fair Housing Update newsletter

Disability Awareness Month

Stop Hate Resource List

2003-04 Annual Report to the Community

To make a public disclosure request, send your inquiry to John Macdonald at john.macdonald@kingcounty.gov

People with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations from OCR, such as written materials in alternate formats, sign language interpreters, etc. 

KC Anti-Discrimination Ordinances

Fair Employment – KCC 12.18
Fair Housing – KCC 12.20
Public Accommodations – KCC 12.22
Fair Contracting – KCC 12.17
Equal Benefits – KCC 12.19

Related links

King County Ombudsman
Equity and Social Justice Initiative
Equal Benefits for Employees with Domestic Partners
Who's Who in Civil Rights for King County