Established in 1951 under the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations is the City agency that enforces civil rights laws and deals with all matters of inter-group conflict within the city. “I am thrilled that we have been able to bring together such a strong group to help us achieve our goal of revitalizing the Commission and further expanding its role and programs in advocating against discrimination, prejudice and violence,” Mayor Nutter said at the Press Conference.
Women Against Abuse is one of the largest domestic violence programs in Pennsylvania. Under Cynthia Figueroa’s leadership, Women Against Abuse serves over 11,000 individuals each year through emergency housing, legal services, hotline counseling, education and advocacy.
Congreso has been strengthening Latino communities in Philadelphia for over 30 years. The nationally-recognized nonprofit is a leading provider of education, employment, health, and family support services in the City. Torres states, “With the Commission, I hope to draw from my years of public service experience at Congreso to preserve the civil rights of all City residents. The opportunity is humbling.” Figueroa also serves on Congreso’s Board of Directors.
The nine appointees to the Commission will work closely with Executive Director Rue Landau and Chair Reverend Allen to enforce practices of equality in the City of Philadelphia.
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