About Us

EMPLOYMENT - HOUSING - PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS - TITLE VI

The Commission is an independent state agency responsible for enforcing the state's anti-discrimination laws which prohibit discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodation on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, disability (not in public accommodations), familial status (housing only) and age (40+, not in housing). The Commission also ensures the State of Tennessee's compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which prohibits discrimination based on race, color and national origin by State agencies receiving federal financial assistance.

Mission: To safeguard individuals from discrimination through education and enforcement.

Governance: The Commission is governed by a nine (9) member board of commissioners appointed by the Governor, the Lt. Governor, and the Speaker of the House, to represent the three Grand Divisions of the state.

Laws: The Commission enforces the Tennessee Human Rights Act and the Tennessee Disability Act. These laws can be reviewed online here. 

Rules & Bylaws: The Commission's Bylaws govern the meetings of the Commission and its administration. A copy may be found here. 

History: The Commission celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2013. More about the Commission's history can be found here. 

Who We Are: Our mission is fulfilled through a staff of investigators, attorneys and other professional support personnel. A list of the Commission's Executive Staff may be found here.

Where We Are: The Commission maintains its central office in Nashville and has regional offices in Knoxville, Chattanooga and Memphis.

Filing a Complaint of Discrimination: Complaints must be filed with the Commission within 180 days of the discriminatory act. Complaint forms may be accessed online here. Or call 1-800-251-3589 to have one mailed to you. The complaint form, with original signature page, must be sent by mail to the Commission. 

The information and materials on this website are provided as a public resource for general informational purposes only and are not intended in any way to constitute legal advice. If you require legal advice, please contact an attorney.