Commissioners
Seven volunteer members, who are appointed by the Mayor for three-year terms, comprise the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission. Each member may serve three consecutive three-year terms. This is a policy-making body which directs the Commission staff. Commissioners are also involved in revising the local civil rights ordinance and assist staff members in their efforts to enforce these laws. The Commission annually elects a Chair and a Vice-Chair.
The commissioners initiate, develop, and define the policies of the Commission; participate equally in all matters that come before the Commission in the exercise of its powers; decide questions by a majority vote of the quorum being present; initiate Commission complaints of discrimination where appropriate; authorize and approve the filing of legal suits; and perform such other functions as may be authorized by the Commission, requested by the chairperson,or prescribed by the Ordinance.
Current Commissioners:
- Anthony Arrington (2022) - Vice Chair
- Leland Freie (2020) - Chair
- Salma Igram (2020)
- Keith Rippy (2021)
- Esaie Toingar (2022)
- Linda Topinka (2021)
- Dr. Ruth White (2020)
Terms expire on June 30 of the year in parenthesis above.
Those interested in serving on the Commission may submit a completed application, by following the steps located here.
Executive Director
The Executive Director plans, organizes and directs the operations and activities of the Civil Rights office. The Executive Director supports the mission of the Commission to promote and protect equality under the law.
Further, the Executive Director serves as an adviser to the City Manager's office on issues of equity and diversity, and coordinates with the Human Resources Department on the City's internal diversity efforts and initiatives.
Any public concerns related to age, color, creed, familial status, gender identity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation concerning municipal services provided by the City of Cedar rapids can be directed to the Executive Director.
To contact the current Acting Executive Director, Janet Abejo-Parker, please call her at (319) 286-5632 or email her at j.abejo-parker@cedar-rapids.org.
