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About the Commission
The state of Hawai'i has a strong commitment to the protection of
civil rights. Article I, Section 5 of the Hawai'i Constitution
provides that "no person shall be denied the enjoyment of civil rights
or be discriminated against in the exercise thereof because of race,
religion, sex or ancestry." The legislature gave meaning to this commitment
by creating the Hawai'i Civil Rights Commission (HCRC), through enactment
of Act 219 in 1988 and Acts 386 and 387 in 1989.
The HCRC was organized in 1990 and officially opened its doors in January
1991. For twelve years the HCRC has enforced state laws prohibiting discrimination
in employment (H.R.S. Chapter 378, Part I), housing
(H.R.S. Chapter 515); public accommodations (H.R.S.
Chapter 489), and access to state and state-funded services (H.R.S.
ยง368-1.5). The HCRC receives, investigates, conciliates, and adjudicates
complaints of discrimination. The HCRC has five (5) uncompensated volunteer
Commissioners. They are appointed by the Governor, with the consent of the
Senate, based on their knowledge and experience in civil rights matters and
commitment to preserve the civil rights of all individuals.
By law the Commission may hold hearings and make inquiries, as
it deems necessary, and has the authority to administer oaths and
affirmations, conduct depositions, compel the attendance of parties
and witnesses and the production of documents by the issuance of
subpoenas, examine parties and witnesses under oath, require answers
to interrogatories, and delegate these powers to any member of
the commission or any person appointed by the commission for the
performance of its functions.
Furthermore the law authorizes the Commission to enforce the State's
anti-discrimination statutes or any of its orders, conciliation
agreements, or predetermination settlements by commencing civil
action in circuit court; by issuing "right to sue" authority to
complainants; or by ordering appropriate legal and equitable relief
or affirmative action when violations are found.
The law also authorizes the Commission to appoint an executive
director, deputy executive director, hearings examiners, investigators
and other necessary support personnel as well as, an attorney to
represent the commission in litigation.
CONTACT:
Al Lynde, administrative services assistant
William Hoshijo, executive director
586-8636
E-Mail info@hicrc.org
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