COUNTY
OF SONOMA
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
MISSION
STATEMENT: The
primary purpose of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is to promote better
human relations among all people in Sonoma County through education, advocacy,
and by initiating action that fosters the recognition of and appreciation for
the diversity of our community.
ROLE
OF COMMISSION:
¥ Develop and strengthen ties among organizations
working in the area of human rights.
¥ Study any
conditions that present prejudice or discrimination against protected classes.
¥ Work to prevent
discrimination by developing educational materials and programs to promote
equal rights, understanding, inclusiveness and tolerance (based on the UNESCOÕs
definition)*.
¥ Consult with and
refer to the Board of Supervisors, federal, state and other governmental
authorities any matters, disputes or controversies within their jurisdiction.
¥ Advocate for policy
at local, state, and federal levels to promote equal rights, acceptance,
understanding and inclusiveness.
¥ Make
recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on procedures, programs or policies
that promote equal rights and an appreciation of human diversity.
¥ Provide information
and referral resources on human rights issues to members of the community.
¥ Foster open
communication about human rights issues within Sonoma County.
* UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural
Organization) defines ÒtoleranceÓ as Òrespect, acceptance, and appreciation for
the rich diversity of our worldÕs cultures, our forms of expression and ways of
being human. It is fostered by knowledge, openness, communication and freedom
of thought, conscience and belief. Tolerance is harmony in difference. It is
not only a moral duty; it is also a political and legal right.