The commission shall have the following responsibilities: (Ord. 1344, 12-14-1998)
A. Study the existence, character, causes, and extent of discrimination within the City because of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, ancestry or disability, and to attempt the elimination of such discrimination by education and understanding. (Ord. 2213, 4-17-2017)
B. Issue such publications and reports of research as in the judgment of the commission shall tend to promote good will among the various racial, religious, and ethnic groups within the City and which shall tend to minimize or eliminate discriminatory practices. The commission shall prepare and distribute a brochure explaining its mission and purpose for dissemination within the City.
C. Formulate and carry out a comprehensive educational program designed to prevent and eliminate discriminatory practices, including the provision of training and educational services to business, professional groups, and educational agencies requesting workshops, seminars, or speakers to address specific issues and concerns, as well as maintaining as a part of the commission's formal educational program a series of public forums addressing various matters about which there is the need to increase public awareness and response.
D. Encourage participation of citizens in study circles and small-group deliberations to address discriminatory practices in a democratic and collaborative way; and to advocate participation in community diversity appreciation teams comprised of representatives from business, schools, law enforcement, realtors, local government and other community representatives to facilitate public forums and activities, to foster acceptance, to create opportunity for all community members, to lessen tensions, or to improve understanding within the community.
E. Provide intake assistance for complaints from individuals who may be victims of discriminatory practices and refer such complaints to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission for investigation and adjudication.
F. Recommend responsibilities of designated staff consistent with this chapter. The staff shall be a person or persons designated by the City Manager.
G. With approval of the City Council, to receive, administer, dispense and account for any City funds that may be allocated, any donations that may be voluntarily contributed to the commission, or any grants that may be awarded to the commission for furthering the purposes of this chapter.
H. Utilize volunteers to aid in the conduct of the commission's activities and functions. (Ord. 1344, 12-14-1998)
I. Make recommendations to the City Council for such further legislation concerning discrimination because of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, ancestry or disability as it may deem necessary and desirable. (Ord. 2213, 4-17-2017)
J. Prepare and transmit to the Mayor and City Council from time to time, but not less often than once each year, reports describing its activities and functions. (Ord. 1344, 12-14-1998)