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2025 Press Releases
New York City Officials Host Joint Roundtable to Provide Essential Information to Immigrant Communities on Housing Rights and Protections, May 20, 2025
“Immigrants are an essential part of the fabric of New York City, and the New York City Human Rights Law guarantees that they cannot be denied housing because of their citizenship status or national origin,” said CCHR Deputy Commissioner Kajori Chaudhuri. “The Commission on Human Rights is dedicated to working with our partners across the City to educating and empowering all New Yorkers about their rights and responsibilities, ensuring no one is excluded or mistreated because of who they are.”
Read Press Release on Joint City Roundtable
NYC Commission on Human Rights Announces Disability Rights Advocate Jaclyn Okin Barney as Appointed Commissioner, May 16, 2025
“Jaclyn brings years of experience fighting for people with disabilities, and her appointment is a powerful step in making our city more accessible,” said Annabel Palma, Commissioner and Chair of the NYC Commission on Human Rights. “Her legal and advocacy work has improved the lives of countless New Yorkers, and I am excited to welcome her to the Commission as we continue to make the City more inclusive and equitable for all.”
Read Press Release on Jaclyn Okin Barney's Appointment
New York City Commission on Human Rights Orders Retailer And Building Owner to Ensure Equal Access for People With Disabilities, May 9, 2025
"The New York City Commission on Human Rights is committed to upholding the rights of all New Yorkers to live, work, and thrive free from discrimination. People with disabilities should never be forced to use separate entrances or settle for less dignified services and facilities," said Annabel Palma, Commissioner and Chair of the NYC Commission on Human Rights. "This decision is a reminder that accessibility is not optional – it is a fundamental right. We will continue to hold providers of public accommodations accountable and ensure that everyone in New York City, whether living, working, or visiting, has equal and independent access to public spaces.”
Read Press Release on H&M Decision and Order
Ensuring Working New Yorkers Know Their Rights, The NYC Commission On Human Rights Announces New Lactation Policy Requirements, May 8, 2025
Employer lactation policies must reflect that employees are entitled to express milk during working hours free from harassment or discrimination, and include the employer's obligation to provide 30 minutes of paid break time, and the right to use existing paid break time or meal time for time in excess of 30 minutes, in accordance with NYS Labor Law. Working New Yorkers have an array of anti-discrimination protections in the workplace, including accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, and protections against discrimination based on caregiver status.
Download New Lactation Policy Requirement Press Release
NYC Commission on Human Rights Launches Education Campaign Announcing New Protections Within Fair Chance Housing Law, April 17, 2025
The Fair Chance Housing Law, which went into effect January 1, 2025, makes it illegal for most NYC housing providers to discriminate against renters and buyers, including in co-ops and condos, because of arrest records, convictions, or other criminal history.
"Fair Chance Housing represents a significant step toward eliminating discrimination and promoting fairness in New York City's housing market," said Annabel Palma, Commissioner and Chair of the NYC Commission on Human Rights. "By removing unjust barriers, we are fostering inclusive communities where all individuals have the opportunity to secure housing."
Download Fair Chance Housing Press Release
NYC Commission on Human Rights Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of Radio Show, Rights Here. Right Now., March 27, 2025
The New York City Commission on Human Rights celebrates the one-year anniversary of their monthly radio show Rights Here. Right Now. that was launched to speak directly to New Yorkers about the work of the Commission and answer questions about discrimination in the workplace, housing, and public accommodations.
Download Press Release on Rights Here. Right Now.
Statement from the New York City Commission on Human Rights on Protecting New Yorkers from Discrimination, March 24, 2025
The New York City Commission on Human Rights reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting all New Yorkers from discrimination as our city’s laws and values remain resolute. Segregation and discrimination have no place in our communities, and we will continue to vigorously enforce the nation’s strongest human rights law to ensure that every New Yorker is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.
Download CCHR Leadership Statement
Annual LGBTQ+ Community Iftar to Celebrate Joy and Resilience in NYC, March 10, 2025
"The NYC Commission on Human Rights is proud to support the 9th Annual LGBTQ+ Community Iftar, a powerful celebration of faith, joy, and belonging. This space offers LGBTQ+ Muslims the opportunity to come together in solidarity and honor both their spiritual and personal journeys without fear of exclusion," said Annabel Palma, Chair and Commissioner of the New York City Commission on Human Rights.