Scheduled Events
Advancing Access and Inclusion: Disability as a Protected Class
Septmeber 10 | 4:30 PM
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.
Event registration encouraged, but not required Register
For more information, contact:
Erie County Human Relations Commission
Phone: 814-451-7021
Email: HRC@eriecountypa.gov
Erie County Human Relations Commission
Phone: 814-451-7021
Email: HRC@eriecountypa.gov
Blasco Library (Admiral Room)160 E Front StreetErie, PA 16507
Past Events:
“Being Black in Erie” Panel Series
July 17 | 5:30 PM
ERIE, PA — The Erie County Human Relations Commission (ECHRC) invites the public to the launch of a new panel series titled Race, Place & Belonging: Being Black in Erie. The first session will take place on Thursday, July 17 at 5:30 p.m. in the H.O. Hirt Auditorium at the Blasco Library, 160 E. Front Street, Erie, PA.
Pride, Protection & Practice
June 26 | 11:30-1:00
Join us for Pride, Protection & Practice: Ethical Responsibilities and Discrimination Protections in Erie County, a free educational session exploring local protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals under the Erie County Human Relations Ordinance. This in-person event will take place during Pride Month and is open to all professionals and community members.
