Legal Definitions - Commission on Civil Rights

The term Commission on Civil Rights refers to the United States Commission on Civil Rights. This is an independent, bipartisan agency of the executive branch of the U.S. federal government. Its primary role is to investigate, research, and evaluate federal laws and policies concerning civil rights. The Commission collects information, issues reports, and makes recommendations to the President and Congress on matters related to discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, or other factors.

Here are some examples illustrating the work of the United States Commission on Civil Rights:

• Example 1: Investigating Voting Access

  Following a federal election where numerous complaints arose regarding long lines, insufficient polling places, and confusing voter ID requirements disproportionately affecting minority communities in several states, the United States Commission on Civil Rights might launch an investigation. They would gather testimony from voters, election officials, and civil rights advocates, analyze state election laws, and compile their findings into a comprehensive report. This report would detail any observed patterns of discrimination or barriers to voting access and could include recommendations for federal legislative or administrative action to ensure equitable voting opportunities for all citizens.

  This example demonstrates the Commission's function of investigating potential civil rights violations and issuing reports with recommendations to address systemic issues.

• Example 2: Evaluating Educational Equity

  Suppose there's a national debate about disparities in educational outcomes, particularly concerning access to advanced placement courses or quality school facilities in urban versus suburban districts. The United States Commission on Civil Rights could undertake a multi-year study to evaluate federal policies and funding mechanisms related to K-12 education. They might examine data on school funding, student demographics, teacher qualifications, and disciplinary practices across different regions. Their final report would assess whether current federal efforts are effectively promoting educational equity or if they inadvertently contribute to disparities, offering policy recommendations to Congress and the Department of Education.

  This illustrates the Commission's role in researching and evaluating federal policies to determine their impact on civil rights, specifically in the context of educational opportunities.

• Example 3: Advising on Disability Rights

  When new technologies emerge that could potentially create barriers for individuals with disabilities, such as inaccessible public kiosks or online government services that lack screen reader compatibility, the United States Commission on Civil Rights might hold public hearings. They would invite experts, advocates, and individuals with disabilities to share their experiences and insights. Based on this input, the Commission could then issue an advisory statement or a formal recommendation to the President and Congress, urging the development of new regulations or amendments to existing laws, like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), to ensure these technologies are universally accessible.

  This example highlights the Commission's advisory capacity, providing expert guidance to the executive and legislative branches on emerging civil rights issues and the need for policy adjustments.