Who we are

The TCHRC was established to help foster understanding and respect among all people in Tompkins County; encourage equality; discourage discrimination, and serve as an advisory board to the Office of Human Rights and to the Tompkins County Legislature. Commissioners are volunteers appointed by the County Legislature.

If you, a friend, or family member are facing difficulties or threats to your rights, such as issues with medical/healthcare access, domestic violence, harrassment at work or in public places, unfair treatment or harassment due to your race, ethnicity, cultural, religious, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, or citizenship status, do give us a call at the Office of Human Rights (607 277 4080) from 9am-4:30pm weekly. We also invite you to stop by to speak with a Human Rights Commissioner during our office drop-in hours on Tuesdays and Fridays from 1-4pm. 

Or use this link.

Projects & Events

  • We want to know what YOU think our priorities should be!

    The Research & Policy Committee has designed a survey to find out what human rights issues we should focus on. Scan the QR code above or use this link to take our survey!

  • Our UnMute Yourself series: Voices of the Unhoused

    Monday, March 17, 5:30-7:30

    We hosted a public youtube event challenging the misconceptions about the unhoused. Panel members included formerly and currently unhoused community members. More details here.

  • Our UnMute Yourself series: Women's Discrimination in Health Care

    May 13, 2024

    Biased treatment? Women spoke out on healthcare experiences in Tompkins County - both as patients and providers. Watch the video.

Apply

We are looking for more Commissioners! Applications are approved by the HRC Executive Committee and the Tompkins County Legislature for a 3-year term (which may be renewed). You must be willing to be an active member of the Commission, attend monthly HRC meetings, and be involved with one or more of our Committees. You must be a resident of Tompkins County. It is highly recommended that you attend one of the HRC’s monthly Zoom meetings first.