Erie County Human Relations Commission Hosts Event on Disability Rights and Protections

Erie, PA - 8/25/2025 - The Erie County Human Relations Commission (HRC) is proud to announce an upcoming workshop, "Advancing Access and Inclusion: Disability as a Protected Class," on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. The event will be held at the Admiral Room, Erie County Library, 160 E. Front St., Erie, PA 16507.

This community event will highlight the legal and social protections afforded to individuals with disabilities, with a focus on ensuring equal opportunities in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

The program will feature:

• A legal presentation on the Fair Housing Act and related protections.
• An overview of disability protections under the Erie County Human Relations Ordinance.
• A panel discussion highlighting community perspectives and lived experiences.

An audience Q&A session will follow the presentations, providing space for dialogue on how Erie County can continue to advance access and inclusion.

The NASW-PA Chapter is co-sponsoring the workshop. Social workers, marriage and family therapists, and professional counselors can earn 1.5 ethics Continuing Education Credits (CEs) upon completion. Additionally, 1.5 Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education (PACLE) credits are available for attorneys.

"This event is an opportunity to strengthen understanding of disability rights while also centering the voices of those with lived experience," said Dr. Kristy Gnibus, Director of the Erie County HRC. "We encourage community members, advocates, and professionals to join us in this important conversation."

The Erie County Human Relations Commission works to eliminate discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations by investigating claims of unlawful discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for all people.

For more information about the event, please contact the Erie County HRC at 814-451-7021 or HRC@eriecountypa.gov.