The Issues:
Discrimination
Enforcing the Baltimore Ordinance
Who enforces the law?
The Baltimore Community Relations Commission is the city agency charged with enforcing the law.
How does the CRC enforce the law?
The Baltimore CRC takes complaints from individuals who believe that they have been the victim of discrimination in any of the covered categories, including gender identity or expression. First contact can be made by phone, but it is best to visit in person to start the process of filing a claim. Experienced staff at the CRC will help you learn what documentation you need and what information you will have to provide in order to file a claim.
What should I do if I think I've been discriminated against?
If you believe that you were discriminated against, contact the Baltimore Community Relations Commission by calling 410.396.3141. You can also go in person during regular business hours to the CRC office at: 10 N. Calvert Street, Ste. 915, Baltimore MD 21202. Click the link to visit the CRC's web site.
Document everything. If you want resolution, you must have proof. Keep accurate records of every phone call, letter, memo, conversation, etc., related to the discrimination you believe you experienced. If others witnessed the discrimination, ask them to support you by providing a written statement of what they saw or heard.
What is the process for filing a complaint?
An intake and assessment is done by an Investigator, who determines if the action meets the definition of discrimination; and whether the discriminatory act took place in Baltimore City. Once these two questions are answered, the Investigator assists the person in writing out a formal complaint for further investigation.
After the complaint is written, the Investigator begins the actual investigation by contacting the employer, business owner, rental agency, etc., being complained against.
Where else can I look for support?
Seek out additional support from your friends, family, and from other advocacy organizations, like Free State Justice. If you have questions or need additional resources, we'd be happy to talk to you.
What if I'm not sure?
Even if you aren't sure whether your experience is covered under the Baltimore ordinance, contact the Baltimore Community Relations Commission. They will be able to help.
What happens if the complaint is proved valid?
If there is enough evidence to prove that a prohibited act of discrimination has occurred, the CRC brings the complaining person and the complained-against together for mediation. An agreement is attempted at mediation to provide the appropriate remedy -- the offer of a job, the offer of housing, the offer of services previously denied, etc. If an agreement cannot be reached at mediation, the CRC may recommend the case for court.
What if I was discriminated against outside of Baltimore City?
This ordinance only covers specific acts in Baltimore City. But, we know that discrimination based on gender identity or expression happens everywhere.
If you believe you are the victim of discrimination based on your gender or gender identity or expression, and the discrimination took place outside of Baltimore City, click here to find out about the Maryland Commission on Human Relations.
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