Iowa Department of Human Rights Newsletter

iowa department of human rights

June 9, 2023


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.



Sign up for the Youth Leadership Academy

What is the Youth Leadership Academy (YLA)?

YLA is a program that helps youth with disabilities develop leadership skills and connect with peers.  The program is funded by the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council, who administers it jointly with the Iowa Department of Human Rights, University of Iowa Center for Disabilities and Development, Access 2 Independence, and ASK Resource Center.  

YLA is for students with disabilities ages 14-21. This session will consist of 8-12 students from Iowa communities. 

When is YLA?

YLA is July 17-21, 2023.  Youth will spend a total of 10 hours that week in the program.  All interactive sessions will be virtual and FREE to all students.

How do I apply? 

Applications are accepted through June 16, 2023.  For instructions, applications, and more information, visit https://www.iowaddcouncil.org/youth-leadership-academy


Building Bridges Community Forum

The Iowa Department of Human Rights’ Office on the Status of African Americans will host "Building Bridges", a community forum where attendees can discuss the myths and cultural differences to unifying and building connections between Africans and African-Americans of African Descent and Diaspora. 

Date & Time:  Monday, June 19, 2023, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Location:       Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), Urban Campus                                         Building 7, Room 170-171                               
                       700 7th St
                       Des Moines, IA 50314

For more information, see the flyer.  


Celebrate Juneteenth

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States.  The observance is marked with celebrations, education, and reflections.  Here are some ways you can observe Juneteenth:

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Internet Discount

What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC benefit program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more.

What are the program benefits?

  • Internet service discount up to $30/month
  • Internet service discount up to $75/month on qualifying Tribal lands
  • Device discount up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer purchased through a participating provider

Only one monthly service discount and one device discount is allowed per household. Not every internet company offers device discounts.

Who is eligible? 

A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if a member of the household is enrolled in government programs like Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, or other programs.  

How do I apply?

You can learn more about the benefits, eligibility, and enrollment by calling 1-877-384-2575 or visiting getinternet.gov.  The website has information in several languages.

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Upcoming DHR Meetings

To view upcoming DHR public meetings, please visit the meetings calendar at https://humanrights.iowa.gov/calendar. You can view a schedule of all the meetings or filter it by boards, commissions, and councils.  



Are there other resources we should know about? Let us know.

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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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