Employment Law Conference to Address Workplace Discrimination - Release

Orlando – The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) and the Association to Preserve African American Society, History and Tradition are presenting the second annual Florida Employment Law Conference. The conference will be held December 17th – 19th at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando.

Our participants are showing a true commitment to eliminating workplace discrimination just by being here to learn and share information. This type of collaboration is what it takes to impact the change that is needed in Florida’s workforce today, “said Dr. Donna Elam, Chairperson of the FCHR. “We are grateful for the opportunity to host this conference and hope that businesses and organizations will continue to utilize us as a resource as they work to implement sound anti-discrimination policies, “said Elam.

Speakers will include representatives from FCHR, the City of Orlando, Family Network on Disabilities of Florida, Inc., and expert lawyers specializing in employment law issues. Topics include sexual harassment, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Florida Whistle-blower Act, navigating the FCHR complaint process and diversity/cultural competency. A full schedule of events can be found at FCHR’s website: http://fchr.state.fl.us/ .

“Events like the Florida Employment Law Conference are more important than ever with the budget shortfall we are all facing. Lawsuits are costly and have an impact on the economic situation of entire communities. In the last 5 months alone, we have seen a 30% increase in the average discrimination complaints filed per month over the past two years,” Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the FCHR. “We are pleased to provide essential information to businesses on how to create high-quality workplaces which value the vast differences between people,” said Daniel.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations, established in 1969, is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. Through education, outreach and partnerships, the Commission works to prevent discrimination through teaching best practices and foster cultural understanding in communities statewide. For more information, visit http://fchr.state.fl.us

Employment Law Conference to Address Workplace Discrimination - Advisory

Orlando – The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) and the Association to Preserve African American Society, History and Tradition are presenting the second annual Florida Employment Law Conference.

Who: The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) and the Association to Preserve African American Society, History and Tradition

What: The Florida Employment Law Conference- Building Workforce Excellence:

A conference designed to educate human resource professionals, lawyers, managers and business owners about best practices and to provide them with the knowledge and resources necessary to foster tolerant and discrimination-free workplaces.

When: December 17th – 19th, 2007

Where: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

One Grand Cypress Boulevard

Orlando, FL 32836

Speakers will include representatives from FCHR, the City of Orlando, Family Network on Disabilities of Florida, Inc. and expert lawyers specializing in employment law issues. Topics include sexual harassment, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Florida Whistle-blower Act, navigating the FCHR complaint process and diversity/cultural competency. A full schedule of events can be found at FCHR’s website: http://fchr.state.fl.us/ .

The Florida Commission on Human Relations, established in 1969, is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. The purpose of these laws is to protect the people of Florida from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status or familial status. Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. Through education, outreach and partnerships, the Commission works to prevent discrimination and foster cultural understanding in communities statewide. For more information visit http://fchr.state.fl.us/

Commission Presents Senior Citizen Awareness Forum

Community Events to Enlighten and Protect Senior Citizens

The Florida Commission on Human Relations and partners will offer two forums in

Citrus County to address pressing issues affecting the elderly.

Crystal River - Local and state agencies are holding two Senior Citizen Awareness forums in Citrus County to create awareness about several vital issues facing the older population. The forums are free and open to the public and will be held Wednesday, May 2, from 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the Homosassa Lions Club (3705 S. Indiana Terrace (CR 490E) Homosassa, Florida 34447) or Thursday, May 3, from 12:30-3:30 p.m . at the Citrus County Auditorium (3610 S. Florida Avenue Inverness, Florida 34450).

The event is presented by The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR), The Mid-Florida Area Agency on Aging (Mid-FL AAA), Seniors vs. Crime and Citrus County Community Support Services Division.

Derick Daniel, Executive Director of FCHR, says “This event will provide important information and resources for protecting the senior citizens of Citrus County from becoming victims of exploitation and discrimination.”

Information discussed at this forum will include scams against seniors, protection tips, caregiver support, elder abuse, neglect and exploitation prevention and discrimination complaints in the areas employment, housing and public accommodations.

Daniel says, “We believe that education is the key to preventing the unfortunate realities of elder discrimination. We are so pleased to be a part of ensuring that local seniors and their caregivers know what to be aware of and where they can turn for support and information. We must come together and work towards stopping these unjust practices.”

The event is open to the public and all seniors and caregivers are encouraged. For more information call Seniors vs. Crime at (352) 249-9139.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. The mission of the FCHR is to prevent unlawful discrimination by ensuring people in Florida are treated fairly and are given access to opportunities in employment, housing and certain public accommodations and to promote mutual respect among groups through education and community partnerships.

Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. The Commission works to foster tolerance and understanding in communities statewide.

Commission Presents 2007 Fair Housing Summit

Community Event to Address Fair Housing Issues

The Florida Commission on Human Relations and partners are offering a free and unique

opportunity for Escambia County community members and housing professionals.

Pensacola – In honor of Fair Housing Month, national, state and local agencies are partnering to provide the Escambia County community with important information on fair housing laws and to examine current housing issues in the area. This free seminar will be held Wednesday, April 18, from 8:30 a.m. until noon .

The seminar, entitled Fair Housing-It’s not an option, it’s the law; is presented by the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR), Legal Services of North Florida, Inc., the City of Pensacola and the Escambia Pensacola Human Relations Commission. The event will take place at The Pensacola Association of Realtors (107 West Main Street, Pensacola, FL 32502).

Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the Commission, says, “Having a solid understanding of fair housing issues and laws is extremely important for everyone; from renters and owners to landlords and realtors. If you don’t understand your rights and responsibilities, you could become a victim of discrimination or end up breaking a law without even realizing it.”

Government agencies received the highest number of housing discrimination complaints ever filed in a single year in 2006 with 10,328, (2006 annual fair housing report by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)).

Daniel says, “We feel that education and open dialogue is key to preventing unlawful, discriminatory activities from occurring. We are very pleased to be here today with our partners to educate the public and ensure that the local housing issues facing Escambia County are brought to the forefront and addressed.”

The seminar, sponsored in part by a grant from HUD, is designed to enlighten the community on these issues. Homeowners, home renters, community advocates, realtors, real estate agents and property management representatives are all encouraged to attend.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. The mission of the FCHR is to prevent unlawful discrimination by ensuring people in Florida are treated fairly and are given access to opportunities in employment, housing and certain public accommodations and to promote mutual respect among groups through education and community partnerships.

Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. The Commission works to foster tolerance and understanding in communities statewide.

Statement in Regards to Winter Haven Hate Crime

The Florida Commission on Human Relations

Deplores Winter Haven Murderous Hate Crime

The Commission speaks out against this hateful and vicious act in which a young man was brutally terrorized and murdered.

“The Florida Commission on Human Relations is deeply saddened and outraged at the news of Ryan Keith Skipper’s death. It has been reported that he was brutally murdered because of his sexual orientation,” said Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the Florida Commission on Human Relations. “There is no doubt that there are differences of opinion with regard to the issue of sexual orientation, but on one issue we all should agree, and that is that we will not tolerate malicious, cruel acts of hate.”

“The Commission would like to convey its sincere condolences to the Skipper family,” said Daniel. “We are very concerned about such senseless acts of intolerance and hatred that lead to loss of life, violence and damage to property. Florida ranks number two in the Nation in the number of hate groups being tracked. We can and must do better,” Daniel said.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. The Florida Legislature has declared that the purpose of these laws is to protect the people of Florida from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status or familial status.

Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. The Commission works to foster tolerance and understanding in communities statewide.

Statement in Regards to Hate Crime Incident

February 8, 2007

The Florida Commission on Human Relations Denounces Hastings Cross-Burning Hate Crime

The Commission condemns this racially motivated, hateful act in which fear and intimidation was used to frighten an African-American family away from purchasing a home

“The Florida Commission on Human Relations is deeply concerned about the hate crimes currently taking place in this state. Florida ranks number two in the Nation in the number of hate groups being tracked – an estimated 50 groups have been identified, said Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

“We must band together and send the message that we will not tolerate hateful acts of violence,” Daniel said. “We commend the United States Department of Justice for prioritizing the eradication of these crimes and we will continue to raise awareness about these pressing issues while promoting tolerance and mutual respect.”

Statement on Black History Month

The Florida Commission on Human Relations Recognizes Black History Month

The Commission Reminds Floridians that this is a Time to Embrace America’s Rich Black History of Heroism, Courage and Social Change

“The Commission would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Black History Month and encourage the people of Florida to remember the successes, sacrifices and courageous acts which are etched in the core of American black history,” said Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

“Though much progress has been made, racism is still alive and well the state of Florida,” said Daniel. “The Commission vows to continue its work in fostering mutual respect and acceptance within communities around the state. Like the fearless leaders before us, we must continue to work together in building peaceful communities free of discrimination, hate crimes and intolerance.”

Commission Presents "Dessert and Dialogue"

Community Members Invited to Share Thoughts on Human Rights Issues

The Florida Commission on Human Relations presents “Dessert and Dialogue,” which will combine the tasting of desserts from around the world with a guided discussion on human rights issues.

Tallahassee – The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) and Keiser University present “Dessert and Dialogue,” part of the Diversity Dinner series. This event will give community members the opportunity to come together and share their thoughts about diversity and human relations issues by openly participating in a guided discussion.

Moderating the event will be Sarah Grady-Ackerman, former Tallahassee news anchor and talk show host.

Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the FCHR says, “We are excited to bring this event to the community again this year! We hope to use this dialogue to raise the level of awareness about diversity and human rights issues, as well as to create a comfortable environment for community members to express themselves.”

The event will take an international theme, with a sampling of desserts from around the world prepared by students of Keiser University’s Capital Culinary Institute.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. The Florida Legislature has declared that the purpose of these laws is to protect the people of Florida from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status or familial status.

Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. Commission works to foster tolerance and understanding in communities statewide.

Tallahassee Students Release Civil Rights Film

Local Students to Release Unique Civil Rights Film

Students at the School of Arts and Sciences to release the original film they wrote and directed; immediately following will be a panel discussion of civil rights activists.

Tallahassee – Local fourth through eighth grade students at the School of Arts and Sciences will release their original film: The Neutral Rainbow: Civil Rights in Tallahassee to the public. Following the film release will be a panel discussion on the civil rights movement by key players in the Tallahassee area.

The film, selected by the Florida Knowledge Network and promoted by the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR), will be released tonight at 6:30, at the School of Arts and Sciences’ Auditorium: 3208 Thomasville Road. The discussion, facilitated by the FCHR, will immediately follow.

This project served as an opportunity for students to get in touch with their own community’s history in relation to the Civil Rights Movement

Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the FCHR said “The Commission is proud to be a part of this event, as it is our firm belief that the key to eliminating discrimination is through education. By encouraging the youth of Florida to become respectful, tolerant and aware citizens, we are helping them to become socially conscious citizens and leaders of the future.”

Students of the School of Arts and Sciences Extended Day Study Hall wrote and produced the film in cooperation with Rossier Productions, Inc. and the Rintels. Pictures were provided during the research for the film by the Florida Memory Project and the Tallahassee Democrat.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations is the state agency charged with enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. The Florida Legislature has declared that the purpose of these laws is to protect the people of Florida from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status or familial status.

Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment.

Statement on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Florida Commission on Human Relations Commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King

The Commission pledges their continued commitment to the protection of civil rights for all people and reminds Floridians of the timeless lessons imparted to Americans by the great Dr. King.

“We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the courage and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to pledge our continued commitment to the protection of civil rights for all people. Dr. King brought hope to the people of this great nation; hope for change and goodness; hope for justice and freedom. Through his actions, we saw courage and dedication as he fought for what he knew was right and never wavered in his convictions, “said Derick Daniel, Executive Director of the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

“We thank him for paving the way and changing life in America as we once knew it. At the Commission, we work diligently every day to protect the civil rights and liberties of all of the people of Florida. Through partnerships and collaboration, we work to break down the walls of prejudice and misunderstanding that, sadly, still plague our communities. We will continue to honor Dr. King in encouraging people to value our differences and work toward mutual understanding and acceptance,” Daniel said.