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Duluth Mayor Announces Expanded Human Rights Officer Role

[Duluth, MN] -  As part of her commitment to ensure fairness and opportunity for all Duluth residents, Mayor Emily Larson announced a newly elevated Human Rights Officer position today, which includes working closely with and reporting directly to the Mayor.

“I’m seeking someone who has a commitment to engage the community on a grassroots level; address systemic barriers to opportunity; and ensure equal opportunity for all neighborhoods and all neighbors,” said Mayor Larson.

“There is a lot of work we need to do to ensure racial justice and human rights for everyone in our community,” she said.  “I think it’s important this person works directly with me to be seen in the community as having the full support and power of my entire administration behind their work,” she added.

This position comes at a significant time in the history of Duluth as Mayor Larson lays out her long term vision for fairness and prosperity for all residents.

She says giving the office a more assertive role is a pivotal part of writing Duluth’s next chapter together.   “Your life expectancy should not be determined by your zip code, the color of your skin or the size of your paycheck. We are better than that, and we are committed to the work necessary to change it. And that work starts now,” she added.

The Human Rights Officer will act both as a key ambassador to the community, who can “meet people where they are at and forge collaboration across differences,” as well as a serve as the City’s staff liaison to the Commission on Disabilities, Human Rights Commission and the Civilian Review Board, says Larson. 

Other key duties include educating City staff on their rights and responsibilities relating to human rights policies, leading an update of the City’s Affirmative Action and Fair Housing Plans, and developing and administering anti-discrimination programs for the City of Duluth.

Applications for the Human Rights Officer position will be accepted through the City of Duluth’s Human Resources website starting today, March 14, 2016. The position posting will close March 31 with an anticipated appointment in April.

The position description and online application are available at http://duluthmn.gov/human-resources/employment-opportunities/

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