In a bold move to combat discrimination, Minneapolis has recently bolstered its Civil Rights Ordinance with new protections that are now in effect. As reported by the City's official announcement, discrimination based on housing status, justice-impacted status, or personal attributes such as height and weight is now prohibited. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has taken to publicly characterizing the city as a leader in progressive civil rights, stating, "Whether you're housed or unhoused, justice-impacted or not, tall or short, big or small, you deserve dignity, opportunity, and protection under the law—and Minneapolis is ensuring that happens."
The amended ordinance, unanimously approved by the City Council and signed into law by Mayor Frey in May, aims to simplify and streamline the complaint and investigation process. It also strengthens enforcement against discrimination. In the words of Council Member Robin Wonsley, "At a time when the federal administration is advancing attacks on our most vulnerable residents and attempting to strip away our hard-earned civil rights, here in Minneapolis we are not only defending the rights we have, we are continuing to expand protections against discrimination."
Besides creating new protected classes, this legislative update has expanded definitions for race, familial status, and disability and has increased protections for pregnant workers and religious observances. As per Kaela McConnon Diarra, Deputy Director of Civil Rights, "The Civil Rights Department is committed to robust enforcement of Minneapolis’ Civil Rights Ordinance and is energized to begin enforcement of these new, pioneering protections." This statement underlines the city's resolve against discrimination.
Discrimination, as defined in the ordinance, is the prejudicial treatment of individuals based on their protected class—a category of identity that is inherent and should not be subjected to change. The expanded ordinance seeks to protect residents within the city limits, covering various spheres including employment, education, housing, shopping, and interactions with City employees. To file a discrimination complaint, residents can reach out to the Civil Rights Department via their website, by calling 311, or by visiting in person. "Our dedicated staff stands at the ready to receive and impartially investigate complaints on these new bases," said Diarra, inviting those who believe to have been discriminated against to come forward.
Historically, the Civil Rights Department has facilitated the resolution of discrimination complaints, which have resulted in over $1 million in monetary damages for victims since 2020. The Department's track record and the new amendments reflect Minneapolis' ongoing commitment towards fostering an inclusive community that upholds the dignity and rights of all its residents.
