About

The Orange County Human Rights Commission (OCHRC) was established in 1970 to serve the Orange County community. The OCHRC’s primary purpose is to foster mutual respect and understanding among all groups in the county, including, but not limited to: race, color, religion, sexual orientation or preference, gender marital status, familial status, military or veteran status, age, disability, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship, genetic information, status as a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or sex offenses, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. They coordinate and facilitate education and awareness events in the community, in order to promote understanding of equity, acceptance, unity, and humanity.

Objectives

The Commission’s primary objectives are:

• Foster mutual respect and understanding among all groups in the county including, but not limited to: race, color, religion, sexual orientation or preference, gender marital status, familial status, military or veteran status, age, disability, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship, genetic information, status as a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or sex offenses, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.
  
  
• Support the Executive Director, as they:
  • Serve as the primary source of information and assistance with county residents regarding human rights violations, and work closely with the NYS Division of Human Right’s Regional Office to do so.
  • Coordinate and facilitate education and awareness to the community, and public and private organizations in order to foster understanding of equity, acceptance, unity, and humanity.
  • Initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding.
  • Facilitate local dialogue and debate on current policy and thought on issues relating to human rights in Orange County.
• Serve in a consultative and advisory capacity to community groups, local government and local agencies in an effort to promote equity and diversity, and assure effective compliance with non-discrimination policies and orders.

Membership

The OCHRC is comprised of 12 Orange County residents who represent a broad spectrum of the community, and / or have demonstrated knowledge and expertise within the areas covered by New York State Human Rights Law, including, but not limited to: race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, age, domestic violence, and religion. Members also represent different geographic areas, expertise, education and experience.

Members

• Doug Hovey, Co-Chair
• Frank Kimler, Co- Chair
• Robin White, Vice Chairperson
• Chris Ashman
• Pat Claiborne
• Nolly Climes
• Angel Figueroa
• Reverend Deacon Vonnie Hubbard
• Earl Miller
• Janet Sutherland
• Scott Wohl

Meetings

• The Orange County Human Rights Commission meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 3:30 p.m. Meeting locations vary. Please contact the Commission for meeting location or more information.