OHR July Newsletter – Director’s Message 

Dear Residents, Neighbors, and Friends:  

As we move into the heart of summer, I’m filled with both reflection and optimism about the progress we have made and the work that lies ahead for the Office of Human Rights (OHR). July embodies the spirit of freedom and independence, values central to our mission of ensuring equality and justice for all residents of the District of Columbia. 

This month marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a pivotal piece of legislation that has significantly advanced the rights of individuals with disabilities. The ADA reminds us of the importance of accessibility and inclusion in all aspects of life. At OHR, we are dedicated to upholding these principles by addressing discrimination and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in every area of our work. 

July also continues our initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement and awareness. Recently, we conducted the Human Rights Liaison 2.0 Training and participated in the Chinatown Park Festival, hosted by the Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs, engaging with residents and empowering our community with knowledge and tools to tackle discrimination. In addition, we will be hosting a series of Office Hours sessions at various public library branches to promote awareness of your rights and responsibilities under local and federal human rights laws. Details about these sessions can be found at the bottom of our newsletter. 

Our team has been working diligently to ensure our resources and processes help residents better access their rights. As part of these efforts, we have launched new intake forms for the DC Universal Paid Leave and the Care for Seniors Act, making sure you can report any discrimination and access program benefits more smoothly and without prejudice. These new forms underscore our dedication to enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in essential services for all individuals.  

As we celebrate our nation’s independence this month, let us also remember that the fight for true equality and justice is ongoing. I encourage each of you to participate in District-wide events, stay informed about your rights, and join us in our mission to create a stronger community where everyone can thrive without fear of discrimination. 

In Solidarity, 

Kenneth Saunders