Commission on Human Rights

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2025 Kathleen Finigan Award

The Sonoma County Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is proud to announce the third annual Kathleen Finigan Award! CHR is excited to recognize an outstanding leader in the community that support the unhoused community as did former Commissioner, Kathleen Finigan.

Kathleen Finigan began her work with Homeless Action and after attending every CHR meeting for years, she finally became a Commissioner the year before her passing. To honor Kathleen Finigan's legacy, CHR honors those doing the heartfelt work that Kathleen Finigan did during her time with the Commission and her heart work prior to joining CHR.

Please take a moment to nominate a person who you believe has been a champion on providing resources to the unhoused community. The deadline to submit nominations is June 1, 2025. The winner will be announced and presented at the June 24, 2025 CHR meeting.

To nominate, click here»

The 2025 - 2026 Youth Commission Application

Each spring 15 to 20 youth are selected to serve as Youth Commissioners for a nine-month term that runs concurrent with the school year. Students participate in monthly meetings, exploreexciting field trips, and gain insights from inspiringguest speakers. This is a free program. Apply to be selected for the 2025-2026 Youth Commission cohort. The 2025 - 2026 Youth Commission Application is open until June 8, 2025.

Click here to apply»

The Youth Commission Project

The Youth Commissioners lead student driven “ad hoc” projects and make recommendations to improve human rights in Sonoma County. The homelessness ad hoc created a documentary to interview people who are homeless in Sonoma County to hear and record their perspectives. Additionally, Youth Commissioners interviewed Liz (who represents District 3 on the CHR) and Katrina (who works closely to provide resources for unhoused people and is the chair of the CHR.)

Watch the documentary video here

Human Rights Violation Reporting Tool

Introducing the first human rights incident reporting website in the history of Sonoma County. Report anonymously for yourself or someone else who needs support. Human rights and dignity for all. Protect each other. Our diversity makes us strong and beautiful.

We see you! Visit https://socohrvp.org/ for more info. Watch our video here!

A project of the Sonoma County Commission on Human Rights.