Volunteers Needed for Human Rights Commission

Monday, September 30, 2024

Monticello, NY - The Sullivan County Legislature is looking for community members to serve on the board of the Sullivan County Human Rights Commission, starting in 2025.

"The Commission needs a full-time executive director and a reconstituted board," explained Legislature Chair Nadia Rajsz. "All nine legislators have an opportunity to nominate someone to the board, but we need volunteers to step forward and let us know they're interested."

Established by the Legislature in 2004, the Human Rights Commission is charged with fostering mutual respect and understanding among all racial, religious and national groups within the County, and on a broader level seeks to promote equality and prevent discrimination.

The role of the commissioners is to ensure individuals' concerns are heard and guide people through the reporting process, while also supporting outreach, education and compliance regarding anti-discrimination and consumer rights laws. While intended to feature nine community members (along with an executive director), the board has been inactive for several years, with the County's Division of Human Resources handling concerns and complaints in the interim.

"It is essential that we restore the Human Rights Commission to fulfill its original mission, and I am eager to engage with individuals who are committed to advancing this important work," remarked District 8 Legislator Amanda Ward, chair of the Legislature's Human Resources Committee. "If you or someone you know is interested, please talk to your legislator or send a letter of interest to Legislature Clerk AnnMarie Martin at [email protected] or 100 North Street, Monticello, NY 12701."

Letters of interest will be accepted through December 31, 2024. Commissioners will be selected by a majority of the Legislature and will serve three-year terms. They must be residents of Sullivan County, 18 years of age or older, and willing to serve on a volunteer basis (although expenses for travel outside the County can be reimbursed, if for Commission purposes).