New York City Commission on Human Rights

When Commissioner Gatling arrived at CCHR in February 2002, the hurdles she encountered were much higher than expected. She inherited a backlog of nearly 5,000 cases – many more than ten years old, and some even twenty years old.

Commissioner Gatling and her staff quickly rose to the challenge – tackling the situation aggressively and methodically. Currently, the case inventory is under 1,100, a number that includes approximately 500 new complaint filings last year. The dramatic reduction in case inventory was accomplished by: thoroughly reviewing the merits of all 5,000 cases; retraining the attorneys and investigators; and beginning complaint investigations at the Intake stage.

Last year, CCHR reached settlements on over 160 of its cases. The benefits to complainants have included: the payment of nearly one million dollars in damages; the construction of 75 modifications for people with disabilities; and employer training and policy changes in 25 companies. In addition, CCHR’s efforts have resulted in the reinstatement of ten individuals and the hiring of five individuals who were denied employment for discriminatory purposes.