Civil Rights Resources
Civil rights laws are designed to protect individuals from and to resolve the effects of certain times of discrimination. These laws, enacted by the federal, State, and local governments, are commonly applied in housing, employment, public accommodation, and financial discrimination cases. And, in these contexts, civil rights laws prohibit discrimination based on personal characteristics such as sex, age, race, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, source of income, and national origin – among others.
Because of the numerous and often overlapping civil rights laws that might apply to a situation, the various types of discriminatory actions and protected characteristics, and the rules of the court system, it is best to seek guidance from a civil rights lawyer when you feel that you may have suffered from potentially unlawful discrimination. While there are private law firms which may be able to help you, government agencies and public interest not-for-profit organizations may be able to help too. When none of these sources are available to you, some courts may provide guidance to people who act on their own behalf (also known as “pro se”).
Organizations
Below is a short list of organizations which may be able to guide you.
Public Agencies
Maryland Attorney General - Civil Rights Division
Phone: 410-576-6300 or 888-743-0023
Email: civilrights@oag.state.md.us
Online Complaint Form
The Maryland Attorney General's Civil Rights Division works to protect and enforce the civil rights of individuals in Maryland. It investigates and addresses complaints of discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, public accommodations, and lending. The division enforces state and federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
The division also engages in outreach and education efforts to inform Marylanders about their rights and how to file complaints. Additionally, it works with state agencies and other organizations to promote equal opportunity and combat systemic discrimination, making it a key player in advancing civil rights across the state.
Maryland Commission on Civil Rights
Phone: 800-637-6247
Email: mccr@maryland.gov
MCCR works to uphold civil rights in Maryland by enforcing laws that prohibit discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and public accommodations. The commission handles complaints of discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and more. MCCR also provides education and outreach to promote equal opportunity and prevent discrimination.
Maryland Inmate Grievance Office
Phone: 410-585-3840
The IGO ensures that inmates in Maryland correctional facilities can report and address violations of their civil rights, including issues related to mistreatment, discriminatory practices, or unconstitutional conditions of confinement. It serves as a legal recourse for inmates to protect their rights while incarcerated.
Phone: 410-767-1100
While the department focuses on services for seniors, it plays a civil rights role by advocating for the rights of older adults, particularly in areas like protection from abuse, discrimination, and neglect. It ensures that seniors are treated fairly in areas like housing, healthcare, and employment.
U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) - Civil Rights Division
Phone: 202-514-3847
The DOJ is a key enforcer of federal civil rights laws. The DOJ Civil Rights Division investigates and prosecutes cases involving racial discrimination, hate crimes, police misconduct, voting rights violations, disability rights, and more. The DOJ also ensures that federal agencies comply with civil rights laws and works to safeguard the rights of all individuals under the U.S. Constitution.
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Phone: 800-669-4000
Email: info@eeoc.gov
The EEOC enforces federal laws that protect employees and job applicants from discrimination in the workplace based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information. It investigates claims of discrimination, mediates disputes, and, when necessary, brings lawsuits to ensure civil rights protections in the workplace.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Phone: 800-669-9777
Online Complaint Form
HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity enforces civil rights laws that protect individuals from discrimination in housing. The agency handles complaints of housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status. HUD also works to promote equal access to affordable housing and fair housing policies nationwide.
Non-Profit Organizations
Maryland State Bar Association
- Pro Bono Resource Center (410-837-9379)
- Lawyer referral information (800-492-1964)
The MSBA plays a role in civil rights by offering resources and legal education related to civil rights issues. It provides referrals to lawyers who specialize in civil rights law, employment discrimination, housing discrimination, and other related areas. MSBA also advocates for access to justice for all Marylanders, regardless of background or status.
American Civil Liberties Union – Maryland Chapter
Phone: 443-524-2558
ACLU-MD is dedicated to protecting civil rights and civil liberties, including free speech, racial justice, voting rights, immigrant rights, and the rights of incarcerated individuals. It challenges government abuses and discrimination in Maryland through litigation, advocacy, and public education. The organization also works on systemic reforms to ensure equal rights for all individuals.
Phone: 410-727-6352 ext. 0 or 800-233-7201
DRM focuses on ensuring that individuals with disabilities are treated fairly and have equal access to services, education, employment, and public spaces. The organization advocates for the civil rights of people with disabilities, challenging discriminatory practices and fighting for inclusion and accessibility.
Phone: 410-220-0494
Email: info@econaction.org
While focused on consumer rights, Economic Action Maryland advocates for economic justice and fair treatment, particularly for low-income individuals who often face systemic discrimination. Its efforts include fighting against discriminatory lending practices, housing inequality, and policies that disproportionately harm marginalized communities.
Women’s Law Center of Maryland
Phone: 410-321-8761
Email: admin@wlcmd.org
The Women’s Law Center advocates for gender equality and protects the civil rights of women in areas such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, employment discrimination, and family law. The center provides legal services and works to eliminate barriers to justice for women facing discrimination and unequal treatment.
Phone: 410-625-9409
PJC is dedicated to advancing civil rights through legal advocacy, focusing on issues such as housing, workers' rights, education, and health. It uses litigation and policy reform to address systemic inequalities, representing low-income individuals and communities who face discrimination and civil rights violations.