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1. I tried to rent an apartment/house in East Lansing but the landlord refused to lease to me because she said she doesn’t lease to students. Is this allowed?

No, the City Code forbids discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations / services based on a person’s status as a student.

2. I was fired from my job in East Lansing because my boss thinks I’m gay. Is this allowed?

No, the City Code expressly ensures civil rights in employment for gays, lesbians, bisexual, and transgendered individuals — or individuals perceived as such.

3. Do I have to live within the City of East Lansing’s boundaries to file a grievance against someone or a business to enforce my civil rights?

No, however, the incident must have occurred within the city’s boundaries in order to be brought to the Human Rights Commission.

4. I heard that I didn’t get a job I applied for in East Lansing because I was born in Lebanon and am of the Muslim faith. What can I do?

Contact the Human Rights Commission. The city protects you from discrimination based on both your national origin and your religion.

5. Can the Human Rights Commission handle an incident that happened on MSU’s campus?

No, as a land-grant institution, MSU has its own agencies to protect your rights. The Human Rights Commission will refer you to the appropriate service if you need their assistance.

6. How does East Lansing’s protection of civil rights differ from state or federal law?

Students are protected from discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations / services in East Lansing. The City Code also includes protection from discrimination for gays, lesbians, bisexual and transgendered individuals or individuals perceived as such. Neither of these protections are offered at the state or federal level.

7. How can I get involved with the Human Rights Commission?

Want to gain experience and/or school credit by serving the cause of civil and human rights in your community? The commission has nine members and all must reside within the city’s boundaries or on MSU’s campus. Commissioners are appointed by City Council for three-year terms.

Applications are available online or at East Lansing City Hall, 410 Abbot Road.