Wisconsin. Governor's Commission on Human Rights

The first Governor's Commission on Human Rights consisted of 18 members appointed by the Governor in 1945. Two years later, the legislature confirmed this action by statute and enlarged the commission's membership to 35 (Chapter 296, Laws of 1947). The 1949 Legislature made the first appropriation to the Commission and a director was appointed the same year. The 1967 reorganization act merged the Governor's Commission and the Equal Opportunities Division (WIHV86-A2045) of the Industrial Commission (WIHV85-A2180) to form a new Equal Rights Division within the Department of Industry, Labor and Human Relations (WIHV85-A482). An Equal Rights Council was also created to oversee the Division.

The Governor's Commission on Human Rights was created to disseminate information and educate the people of Wisconsin to an understanding and practice of human rights. The Commission was also empowered to investigate cases of alleged discrimination in public places, and to seek conciliation where it believed discrimination to have occurred. The Commission could also encourage and assist local units of government in guaranteeing equal opportunity for housing. The Commission developed a broad interpretation of its duties and functions. In addition to organizing educational conferences and programs to eliminate prejudice and discrimination it also carried out the following activities: mediated informally in cases involving discrimination; performed research; recommended, initiated, and supported legislation; and provided consultant services to communities, state agencies, and civic and religious groups concerned with the promotion of human rights. The Commission had no enforcement powers but handled cases and complaints through negotiation, conciliation, and persuasion. However, it maintained close contact with the Attorney General's Office and local prosecutors who could institute legal action if Commission methods failed.

From the description of Agency history record. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 145776546