INQUIRIES

The Commission's daily activities involve responding to inquiries from the general public.

During FY 1982, 6,003 persons contacted the Commission for information, referral or to file a complaint Only 753 inquiries resulted in complaints being filed.

If it appears that the person has grounds for filing a complaint, Commission staff proceeds with writing, typing and mailing the complaint forms to the complainant for signature.

As Chart 1 indicates, during FY-1982 complaint filings increased to 958, an increase of 2% above FY-1981 figure of 943 complaints.

Chart 2 illustrates that most complaints received during FY 1982 alleged discrimination in employment. (88% were persons filing alleged employment discrimination, 4% public accommodations discrimination, 7% housing discrimination, and 1% credit discrimination.)

Chart 3 (below) shows the basis upon which individuals filed the 958 complaints received in FY 1982. Most persons alleged race discrimination (26%), followed closely by sex discrimination (25%). Physical disability discrimination (12%), age discrimination (11%) and National Origin (3%).

Many complaints filed with the Commission are crossfiled with local and federal agencies. Cross-filing refers to a complaint that falls within the jurisdiction of the local, state, and federal civil rights laws and the individual choosing to file his/her complaint with each agency.