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As the world’s second home, no city on earth can match New York's rich ethnic diversity – this City's greatest asset. Wave after wave of immigrants have shaped New York City where over 140 languages are spoken. This City has flourished because of the culture of tolerance and acceptance that characterizes New York. However, when discrimination appears, it threatens the rights and freedom of New Yorkers.

New York City has one of the most comprehensive Human Rights Laws in the nation. The Law protects New Yorkers from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations. The Commission on Human Rights is the agency empowered to enforce this Law and provide protection to the most vulnerable portions of our population.

I want to commend Commissioner/ Chair Patricia L. Gatling, a career prosecutor from Brooklyn, and her staff for revitalizing the Commission and strengthening its services. Under her direction, the Commission is vigorously enforcing the Human Rights Law. They have also built an effective community relations arm that offers educational and intervention programs which help develop mutual understanding and respect among our City's many communities.