Broward Human Rights Initiative

The Broward Human Rights Initiative (BHRI) protects the civil rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) persons through direct legal representation in Broward County and outreach, education and training programs throughout South Florida.

There exists a special need for protection against GLBT discrimination in Broward County. In 30 states, individuals can be fired on the basis of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression without any legal recourse. Though Florida does not provide statewide protection, in Broward County, discrimination in employment, accommodation, and housing based on sexual orientation or gender identity/expression is prohibited by Chapter 16 1/2 of the County Code of Ordinances.

BHRI addresses the provision of critically needed legal protection for the South Florida GLBT community by focusing on three primary outcomes:

• provide free civil legal advice and representation to individuals regarding possible discrimination*
• collaborate with local, state and national organizations with similar missions
• conduct widespread community outreach and legal education to spread awareness of legal rights and affect widespread policy change

*BHRI ensures that eligible GLBT persons have available to them free and appropriate legal representation designed to meet their unique needs. Legal Aid attorneys provide advice and representation to clients that may have experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity in the areas of:

• Housing
• Accommodations
• Employment

Intake:

• Immediate appointments upon walk-in are not generally available
• Potential clients may walk-in and complete an application for services from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm,
  Monday – Friday, and unit staff will follow-up via telephone
• Or call Legal Aid’s office at 954-736-2492 to schedule an appointment

Community Partners and Links to Helpful Websites:

The Pride Center at Equality Park – www.glccsf.org
Our Fund – www.our-fund.org
Florida Together Federation – www.fltogether.org
Broward County Civil Rights Division
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Florida
Equality Florida
Human Rights Campaign