1-minute voter guide: Denver's Referred Question 2S
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Denver's Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships would be established as a formal cabinet department under this proposal referred to the ballot by the Denver City Council.
Why it matters: The measure would change the city charter and add its executive director to the mayor's Cabinet.
- Proponents, including Mayor Mike Johnston and Denver's Democratic Party, say the change would reinforce the city's commitment to human rights.
How it works: If passed, Denver's mayor would nominate and appoint the agency's director with City Council approval.
- It would also create an advisory board to help the department with operations and policy recommendations.
- The city estimates the measure would result in a "nominal change" in the director's salary and anticipates the agency would keep its current positions and programs.
Context: The Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships was created in the 1940s to promote compliance with anti-discrimination laws and advocate for residents' rights, particularly those historically excluded by racist practices like redlining.
- It's the umbrella agency for five city divisions, including the offices of Immigrant & Refugee Affairs, Disability Rights and Aging.
The other side: While no organized opposition campaign exists, written comments against the measure in Denver's ballot booklet say the measure is unnecessary and redundant, arguing all city agencies should address human rights and community concerns.