Civil Rights, Commission on, is an independent agency of the United States government. It works to guarantee the civil rights of Americans, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin. The commission attempts to protect voting rights and the right to equal opportunities in education, employment, housing, and other areas. It also investigates charges of denial of civil rights; studies how government policies affect such rights; and makes recommendations to the president and to Congress.
The commission was created in 1957. It originally had six members. Congress expanded the commission to eight members in 1983. The president and Congress each appoint four members. Commissioners serve six-year terms and may not be dismissed for their political opinions. No more than four members may belong to the same political party.
