Founded: In 1971 as an official governmental commission by the Board of Supervisors in collaboration with the Orange County Division of the League of California Cities.
Mission: To deal with intergroup tensions; to foster mutual understanding among all residents of Orange County; to promote measures to eliminate prejudice, intolerance and discrimination against any individual or group.
Appointment Authority: Six Commissioners appointed by the OC Board of Supervisors, five appointed by the OC League of Cities after nomination by their City Council.
Role: Conducting hearings on civil and human rights issues; taking positions on challenging human relations issues; studying contentious issues relating to discrimination, intolerance and prejudice; mediating conflicts; educating institutions and individuals in Orange County about issues pertaining to change, diversity, fear and bigotry; evaluating the Executive Director in collaboration with the Community Resources Department.
Commissioner’s Responsibility: Prepare for, attend and participate in the monthly meetings of the Commission. Participate in at least one committee.
Orange County Human Relations Commission meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in conference room A/B on the Main floor of Building B, 1300 S. Grand Ave, Santa Ana, 92705. Commission meetings are open to the public and guest are invited to speak during Open Forum at the beginning of each meeting. The office parking lot and restrooms are accessible to people with disabilities.
Commissioners:
Chair: Carol Turpen Vice-Chair: Ken Inouye
Ruben Barron Nadia Saad Bettendorf Becky Esparza
Timothy Kowal Leslie K. Le Chief Dave Maggard
Rev. David Rader C. William Wood Doug Wooley
