About the Commission

The Human Rights Commission ensures that residents of the Town enjoy equal opportunity to participate in and enjoy life in the Town regardless of their race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, marital, family or military status, socio-economic status, ex-offender status, or disability.

The Commission supports the human rights of groups, organizations, and individuals against discrimination in housing, employment, education, public accommodations, town services, insurance, banking, credit and health care.

The Commission was created by a vote of Town Meeting in November 2017.

Members

The Human Rights Commission has 13 members who are appointed to 3-year terms by the Select Board, with some being recommended by other bodies. The high school student member is appointed for a 1-year term. All members' terms expire in July. Members are meant to be diverse in their demographics so as to better represent all those in Town. Current members include:

NAME ROLE TERM APPOINTED BY
Lauren Peloquin Member 2027 Youth Commission

Vicki Castagnola

Member 2026 School Committee
Sgt. Jason Sullivan
Member 2026 Chief of Police
Princess Nwachukwa Student member 2025 Select Board
Julie Jeannetti Member 2025 Select Board
Laura McGowan Member 2027 Select Board
Clarissa Robyn Member 2027 Select Board
Jim Kaufman Member 2027 Select Board
Sari Chait Member 2025 Select Board
Justin Humphreys Member 2026 Housing Authority
Lance Hartford Member 2026 Council on Aging
Vacant Member TBD Commission on Disability

Contact

Email this board directly at dedhamhrc@gmail.com.

Please note: Town boards and committees are staffed by volunteers who may not be available during business hours. If you need a response during business hours, please contact the Town Manager's Office.

Meetings

Public meeting dates and times are posted at Town Hall and the Dedham Public Library at least 48 hours before each meeting in compliance with the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law.

Meeting agendas and minutes are available on our Meetings & Documents page.