Advisory Groups, Authorities, & Commissions
Human Rights: Filing a Charge
Read the Office of Human Rights brochure in English
Lea el folleto de la Oficina de Derechos Humanos en Español
The Commission may be contacted by letter, telephone, or in person concerning any allegation of discrimination regarding housing, employment, public accommodation, education or commercial real estate, that has occurred in Arlington County, regardless of whether the person making the allegation lives in Arlington or elsewhere. A Commission staff member will explain the process. In general, the process is as follows:
- The person claiming discrimination ("complainant") files a Complaint against an individual or a company ("respondent") alleging discrimination. The respondent receives a copy of the complaint and has an opportunity to respond. A complaint can be resolved at any stage in the process.
- A staff member conducts an Investigation of the complaint. The Executive Director of the Commission reviews the investigative findings and determines whether the complaint is justified.
- If a complaint does not appear to be justified, the Executive Director dismisses the complaint. A complainant may Appeal a dismissal to the Commission.
- If the complaint is justified, the Executive Director will try to resolve the complaint through Conciliation meetings between the parties. The terms of any settlement agreement are set out in writing and provided to both parties.
- If conciliation does not work, the Commission may hold a Public Hearing. Testimony is taken under oath, and both parties are given the opportunity to present their case.
- The Commission issues a Decision stating its finding and recommendations in the case. The Commission may seek a remedy on behalf of the complainant if it finds that discrimination has occurred. The Commission will dismiss the complaint if it finds no discrimination.
Complaints regarding employment discrimination require an Employment Discrimination Intake Form (PDF). The form must be printed, filled out, and returned by mail or in person to:
The Office of Human Rights, EEO & ADA
2100 Clarendon Boulevard, Suite 318
Arlington, VA 22201
If you are interested in filing a charge, you may call 703-228-3929 or e-mail Human Rights.