Records of the Community Relations and Human Relations Commissions

Descriptive Summary

Title
Records of the Community Relations and Human Relations Commissions
Identifier
BMRC.EHC.CR_HRC
Repository
Evanston History Center
Language
English
Size
0.5 Linear feet
Dates
1963-1988
Creator
Human Relations Commission (Evanston, Ill.)

Acknowledgements and Access

This collection was part of the BMRC Survey Initiative, 2009-2011. For current information about the collection and its status, please contact the Evanston History Center.

Historical note

These records pertain to the successor body to the Evanston Community Relations Commission. The Human Relations Commission was established by an Evanston city ordinance in 1968 with a somewhat different structure from that of its predecessor. Its Chair and 14 Members were appointed by the Mayor with the consent of the City Council. “The primary function of the Commission shall be to improve human relations in the City of Evanston”, by advising the Council, educating all groups in the community in the field of human relations, acting as a bridge between government and citizen groups; acting as a catalyst for improvement in human relations and living conditions; sponsoring research in the field of human relations; and assisting citizens in pursuit of their rights. In carrying out its functions, the Commission could conduct investigations and hold hearings.

Scope and Contents note

The CRC records span the dates 1963 to 1969 and fill one archival box. The records are sparse and incomplete however, there are a number of individual records of interest. For example, financial records, copies of speeches, in-depth documentation of racial conflicts, and a small number of city ordinances. Other records include reports from committee meetings, annual reports, and correspondence, all of which are spotty and incomplete. This small collection contains a copy of the founding ordinance, reports on relevant issues including an older survey of human relations in Evanston, and several leaflets issued by the Commission.

Processing Information note

This collection was surveyed as part of the Black Metropolis Research Consortium's Survey Initiative on 2010 May 19 by Lauren Kalal.

Related Archival Materials note

Outside of this repository: Ethel Ina Untermyer Papers - Lake County Discovery Museum.

Indexed Terms