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In Seattle, we recognize that anti-Blackness is the basis of systemic oppression in America and that the erasure of DEI efforts along with attacks on immigrants, refugees, and transgender rights are deeply interconnected. The Trump administration’s actions not only hurt these communities but also reinforce the marginalization of Black people. These actions go directly against our City’s values of dignity, equal rights, and fair opportunities for all. We stand in solidarity with Black, immigrant, and transgender communities, and all those facing discrimination and unfair treatment.
Seattle has some of the strongest civil rights protections in the country and is home to the Race and Social Justice Initiative—the first in the United States to make sure City programs, policies, and budgets create racially equitable outcomes. While commitments to DEI and social justice are being reversed across the country, our City, under the leadership of Mayor Harrell, passed a law that allowed us to get the Race and Social Justice Initiative into Seattle’s code. These laws are the result of many years of grassroots community organizing in Seattle. We are proud of this history and are dedicated to working with communities and policymakers to build systems that support everyone in our community to thrive.
The Seattle Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) enforces laws against discrimination in housing, employment, public spaces, and contracting. If you have been harassed or discriminated against because of your race, immigration or citizenship status, gender, or other protected class, please contact our office. We will listen, investigate your complaint, and work with businesses to help them follow the law.
As the federal government attempts to roll back progress on equal rights, we are committed to doing our part. The City of Seattle will continue to focus on civil rights and racial equity in our governance, ensuring these values stay at the center of our work. Together, we can build a city where everyone is respected is for who they are, has equitable opportunities, and truly belongs.
Derrick Wheeler-Smith
Director, Seattle Office for Civil Rights
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 City of Seattle Celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride Month with Flag Raising and Proclamations at City Hall
On May 31, the Seattle LGBTQ Commission joined City and community leaders for the 13th annual Pride flag raising at City Hall. Watch the event recording on SOCR's blog.
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 SOCR's Policy Priorities
The Seattle Office for Civil Rights champions research-backed policies that uplift community voices and advance equity, social justice, and civil rights protections in Seattle. Visit our website to learn more about policy priorities guiding our work now through 2027.
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Immigration and citizenship status is a protected class
In partnership with the Mayor’s Office and the Seattle Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, the Seattle Office for Civil Rights created a new resource guide to support immigrant and refugee communities in Seattle. This guide offers essential information on legal rights, local resources, and family safety planning in English and Spanish.
We encourage all community members, local partners, and advocates to utilize this resource as we work together to create a safer, more informed, and welcoming city for everyone.
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 The Seattle Office for Civil Rights helps businesses understand how to comply with laws against illegal discrimination. Check out our new videos about civil rights laws that apply to all types of businesses in Seattle.
Discrimination is illegal when you are harmed and treated differently from others in similar situation based on your race, gender, or any other protected class. The case examples below show how filing a complaint can help to change your situation and make sure businesses follow the law.
Upholding Civil Rights for People with Disabilities
In response to a discrimination complaint, SOCR found evidence that a housing provider failed to accommodate a tenant’s disability and use of a service animal, and retaliated against them. Through our investigation of this complaint, the housing provider paid the tenant $2,500 and attended a Renting in Seattle Landlord Workshop. This case shows how SOCR enforces anti-discrimination laws and protects civil rights, including the right to use service animals for medically necessary support.
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Enforcing Laws Against Illegal Harassment
Seattle's anti-discrimination laws also protect you from harassment. In response to a discrimination complaint, SOCR found evidence that an employee was harassed due to their sexual orientation, and ultimately had to resign due to intolerable workplace conditions. Through our investigation, the employer paid the individual $17,000, sent managers to anti-harassment training, and developed an anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policy to correct discriminatory behavior.
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Report Illegal Discrimination
If you have experienced discrimination or harassment based on your race, citizenship status, gender identity, or any other protected class, contact our office. We will listen, investigate your complaint, or refer you to the appropriate agency for help. Visit our website to contact us and learn more.
Commissions are groups of community volunteers that advise the Mayor, City Council, and City Departments on equitable practices and policies. They recommend legislation, raise awareness about social justice issues, and serve as a liaison between the public and city government. Keep reading to learn more about their latest news and updates.
Join the Seattle Disability Commission
The Seattle Disability Commission (SDC) is accepting applications for new members! SDC works with the community to identify disability rights issues and make recommendations to the City on how to increase participation of people with disabilities into all areas of economic, political, and community life. Are you passionate about promoting equity, access, and inclusion? Apply to become a member on the Boards and Commissions website.
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Stories by the Seattle Women's Commission
Emergency Contraceptives: There Are Always Options
Mistakes are made, accidents happen, and sometimes birth control fails. This article by the Women's Commission explores ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections from the perspective of a health navigator. Visit SOCR's blog to read more.
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Accelerating Action for Gender Equality: Real Voices and Real Change on International Women’s Day
International Women's Day is a call to take bold, urgent steps toward gender equality, and the Seattle Women’s Commission fully supports this challenge. In this article, the Women's Commission shares real insights from local women who responded to a recent survey, highlighting the challenges they face, their achievements, and the changes needed to build a truly equal world. Read it on SOCR's blog.
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Celebrate Juneteenth at Seward Park
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers finally arrived in Texas to inform more than 250,000 enslaved African Americans of their freedom, which came two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth recognizes this pivotal day in our country's history, celebrates Black brilliance and culture, and uplifts the ongoing movement for racial equity.
Join the City of Seattle's Juneteenth celebration for a full day of joy and community! This family-friendly event has something for everyone, including line dancing, a game of chess with Detective Cookie, and group painting sessions. Groove to live performances by talented youth artists and DJ Mr. Cliff, and treat your taste buds to irresistible eats from local favorites like Big Dawgs and Chubby Plant. Visit Seattle IT's Blog to learn more.
When: Thursday, June 19
Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Shelter 3 at Seward Park, 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle, WA 98118
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Downtown Summer Events with Seattle Parks and Recreation
Join Seattle Parks and Recreation for loads of FREE events at amazing parks this summer! From movie nights under the stars, salsa dancing, and midday ping pong to live music, yoga in the park, and family-friendly scavenger hunts, there's something for everyone this season. Events start in June and run through September across downtown and neighborhood parks. Check out the full schedule.
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Plan Ahead for Construction on I-5
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) starts work on the Revive I-5 project this summer. You can expect weekend closures and lane reductions on northbound I-5 across the Ship Canal Bridge. Transit is a great way to get around and enjoy everything Seattle has to offer this summer and beyond. Learn about your travel options at FlipYourTrip.org. For details about Revive I-5, visit WDOT’s website at bit.ly/ConstructionI-5.
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