OHR May Newsletter – Director’s Message

Dear Residents, Neighbors, and Friends:

April was quite a busy month for the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR), as we celebrated both DC Language Access Awareness Month and Fair Housing Month - two significant observances that reaffirm our dedication to ensuring equal access and housing rights for every resident in the District. As we step into May, we remain steadfast in our commitment to uplifting and celebrating our diverse communities and our mission to protect and promote civil rights for all.

This month, we’re excited to honor Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, shining a light on the incredible contributions of AANHPI communities across our city and beyond. These communities, representing about 6% of the District's population, add a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and histories into our city. Their resilience, leadership, and determination have enriched our city in our everyday lives.

May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, which raises awareness of the importance of mental wellness and equal access to services. As advocates for civil rights, we recognize that mental health issues intersect with various forms of discrimination, from employment discrimination to barriers in accessing critical services.

At OHR, we prioritize direct engagement with our community, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. With this in mind, we met with residents in Wards 6 and 7 to gather their insights and feedback on our Strategic Action Plan. This plan outlines our goals for improving accessibility, enforcement, and community engagement, and your input is critical in shaping it. These conversations have helped us determine our priorities and enhance our outreach.

Looking ahead, we invite Ward 8 residents and the broader DC community to join us for our next listening session on May 29 at Anacostia Library. Your thoughts and feedback will shape our future strategies, making them more accessible and impactful.

I encourage you to regularly check out our website or social media for more information on our upcoming events. These platforms are updated with the latest news and information, and we look forward to hearing from you!

In Solidarity,

Kenneth Saunders