Iowa Department of Human Rights Newsletter

iowa department of human rights

March 4, 2022


The Iowa Department of Human Rights (DHR) brings strength to Iowa's rich heritage.  Our three divisions - Community Action Agencies, Community Advocacy and Services, and Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning - work to reduce cultural, social, and economic barriers to opportunities for Iowans to succeed.



We are hiring! 

The Department of Human Rights is committed to growing opportunity and access for all Iowans. The Administrative Assistant position will play a key role in our work to enhance opportunity for vulnerable populations throughout the state.

As a member of the Department's leadership circle, this position will serve as a special assistant to the Deputy Director/Division Administrator for Community Advocacy and Services.  Learn more about the position and how to apply at the State of Iowa Careers website.  


Languages Spoken in Iowa

Data Visualization and Dashboard

As governmental agencies and community-based organizations continue to provide more services and resources in languages other than English, this language data portal serves as a resource to anyone seeking to improve services and access to Iowans with limited English proficiency.  Watch the video tutorial on how to use the dashboard.

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Iowa Women's Hall of Fame Nominations Open

The Iowa Women's Hall of Fame honors women who make history for their contributions in a multitude of fields like education, arts, science, sports, and public service. If you would like to nominate someone for the 2022 Iowa Women's Hall of Fame, visit the Iowa Department of Human Rights' website by clicking here: Women's Hall of Fame.    The nomination deadline is April 1, 2022.


March is Women's History Month 

During Women's History Month, we celebrate and honor women's varied contributions and achievements in history.  The Iowa Department of Human Rights has created this video to highlight some of women who led the way to making the world a better place.

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To learn more about Women’s History, or the women in this video, check out these resources:

To learn more about women of Iowa who have made history visit 
https://humanrights.iowa.gov/cas/icsw/events-recognition/iowa-womens-hall-fame.


Women in Iowa 2020

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People You should Know

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At the Department of Human Rights, we are honored to know many Iowans who work without fanfare to make our state better. Our new People You Should Know series will introduce you to Iowans who give their skills, talents and abilities to make a real difference in Human Rights in Iowa.

This month we feature Mundo Pequeno, Spanish-Immersion Childcare Director, Lupita Castillo, of Des Moines. Do you know someone who should be highlighted in "People You Should Know"? Nominate them here!


Applications for home energy assistance still being accepted

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists low income families with the cost of home heating by providing a one-time payment to the heating utility. Applications for LIHEAP are being accepted through April 30, 2022.  You may apply at your local community action agency.  To locate the agency in your county, click here:  Where to apply.

Winter Moratorium Ends April 1, 2022

Households that qualify for LIHEAP are protected from having their gas and electric utilities shut off during the winter moratorium which runs from November 1 - April 1.  If you are behind on your home energy bill and are facing a disconnection notice, contact your local community action agency for assistance.  


Youth Engagement

This past week, DHR provided opportunities for youth program participants to job shadow, learn, and visit with leaders in the executive, judicial, and legislative branches of government.  Thank you to our hosts for empowering our future leaders!

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Down Payment and Closing Costs Programs

The Iowa Finance Authority has programs to assist Iowans with down payment and closing costs in conjunction with its mortgage programs.  

One of the programs is the Minority Down Payment Assistance program which offers eligible Iowans with a $5,000 down payment and closing costs assistance grant when paired with the FirstHome program mortgage. The program is subject to funding availability.  Find out more at Iowa Finance Authority's website. 



COVID-19 Language Resources

American Sign Language Videos-CDC

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-Resources for Limited English Proficient Populations

Congolese Health Partnership Videos

Coronavirus, State Website

Crescent Community Health Center-Marshallese Language

EMBARC Ethnic Minorities of Burma and Advocacy and Resource Center

Hawaii Office of Language Access-Youtube

Iowa Department of Human Rights-Language Access

Iowa Department of Public Health

Iowa Spanish Helpline 515-344-3936 

Multi-Lingual Hotline  1-877-558-2609

Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa  

Test Iowa-Free COVID-19 Test Kits 


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Iowa Department of Human Rights
Lucas State Office Building
321 E 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
515-242-5640 or 1-800-351-4659
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