Attorney General Mayes Creates Community Civil Rights Council After Legislature Eliminates Decades Old Civil Rights Board

PHOENIX — Attorney General Kris Mayes today announced the creation of a Community Civil Rights Advisory Council within her office, following the state legislature's decision this year to eliminate the Arizona Civil Rights Advisory Board.

Nearly sixty years ago, through bipartisan efforts, Arizona created the the Arizona Civil Rights Advisory Board. The Board, made up of community members with diverse backgrounds and political affiliations, volunteered to engage with the Attorney General's Civil Rights Division and worked collaboratively to research and address civil rights issues across the state.

This year, the Arizona legislature eliminated the Civil Rights advisory board, discontinuing the work of its volunteer members. Prior to its elimination, Board and subcommittee members were researching and engaging with fellow Arizonans on hate-based crimes and incidents, fair housing issues, accessibility issues impacting individuals with disabilities, and civil rights issues in rural communities.

"This work is too important to let it go unfinished,” said Attorney General Mayes. “For nearly 60 years, Arizonans with different political beliefs and from different backgrounds have volunteered to work collaboratively with their government on civil rights — and my office is committed to making sure that legacy continues, regardless of the decision made by the Legislature this year."

The Attorney General's Office recognizes the importance of citizen engagement with government agencies and is committed to ensuring Arizona residents have a seat at the table to discuss important civil rights issues impacting all Arizonans. Effective today, Attorney General Mayes is establishing a Community Civil Rights Advisory Council within her office.

The Council will be comprised of community representatives who are knowledgeable about Arizona civil rights and committed to researching civil rights concerns in the state and assisting the Attorney General's Office in eliminating unlawful discrimination in Arizona. The Attorney General's Office is committed to ensuring that the work of this community group continues despite partisan agendas.

Members of the council will be announced at a later date.