How to File a Discrimination Complaint with the HHS Office of Civil Rights

Important federal laws protect our clients from discrimination. The ADA and Section 504 prohibit discrimination based on disability, while Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color and national origin.  Yet DCF routinely fails to use interpreters when communicating with our LEP and deaf and hard of hearing clients, does not translate important documents such as action plans and foster care review reports, and lacks appropriate services for individuals with disabilities and those who are limited English proficient.  Informal advocacy and motion practice are important tools to challenge discrimination and protect our clients’ rights.  But there is another effective tool you can add to your litigation toolbox.  Attorney Timothy Stark, Investigator with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Civil Rights (OCR), will provide a review of federal anti-discrimination laws and walk you through the steps to file a complaint.  OCR enforces federal civil rights laws which prohibit discrimination in the delivery of health and human services based on race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, and religion.  You will also hear from your CAFL colleagues about their experiences filing complaints with OCR.

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