Welcome to DHR
The Iowa Department of Human Rights (DHR) is a state agency with a mission to ensure basic rights, freedoms, and opportunities for all by empowering underrepresented Iowans and eliminating economic, social, and cultural barriers. DHR’s core functions are the administration of federal programs to help low income families, research and data analysis pertaining to juvenile and criminal justice issues, and advocacy and services to Iowans who have historically been marginalized. Originally conceived in 1987 and reorganized in 2010, DHR serves as an umbrella for several agencies and offices that had previously operated independently.
DHR Projects
How Can We Help?
Information and ReferralsGovernment can sometimes be confusing or intimidating. We help people connect with state and local resources that could meet their needs or answer their questions. We provide assistance with confidentiality and respect and we build bridges between underserved and under-represented Iowans and government. |
Research & EducationWe provide information about and for Iowa's under-represented populations through research, public events, and special projects. We are a resource for government and for all Iowans about the value of our state's diversity. We provide data to the public, other state agencies, and policymakers to educate and inform decision making. |
AdvocacyWe work to ensure that Iowa's laws and government systems are fair and responsive to the specific needs of the populations we serve. Whether we are promoting laws and policies to support minority businesses or helping persons get interpreting services so that they can access health care, DHR advocates for long-term solutions to provide fairness and equity. |
Programs