The Salem Human Rights and Relations Advisory Commission (HRRAC) was created in 1964 by the City Council to respond to concerns of the treatment of minority residents of Salem. It has worked for over 40 years to ensure that Salem is a safe and supportive community for all who live, work and visit here.

The Commission has 15 members (including 14 adult members of the community and one youth member) appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Salem City Council for a three-year term. The HRRAC derives its power and authority from the Chapter 8 (pdf document) of the City Code. This ordinance states the general powers and duties of the HRRAC.

The HRRAC works with individuals and groups to identify and address sources of tension in the community. It responds to complaints and works to find peaceful solutions to conflict by addressing issues that affect all sectors of the population. In addition, the HRRAC strives to form partnerships and networks on a widespread basis on the state, regional, national and international level.

The philosophy of the Commission is to solve complaints through conciliation, advocacy, and mediation rather than litigation. The goal of the HRRAC is to work with citizens and groups to use education and action to eliminate the causes of discrimination in our community.

Staff Contact:

Marilyn Johnston

Human Rights and Relations Specialist

Department of Community Services

555 Liberty St SE, Room 300

Salem OR 97301-3503

PH: 503-588-6261

TTY: 503-588-6032

FAX: 503-315-2567

The City of Salem values all persons without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, domestic partnership, disability, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity and source of income.