- Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
Media Contact for Grand Opening of New MCAD Worcester Office Location Marks a Milestone in Advancing Civil Rights
Justine LaVoye, Press Secretary, Director of Communications, & Legislative Liaison
Boston — The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) is thrilled to announce the opening of its new Worcester office location, marking a momentous occasion that underscores the agency’s commitment to expand its services and efforts to eradicate discrimination across the Commonwealth.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday, January 19, hosted by the MCAD Commissioners and Interim Executive Director at the new location at 18 Chestnut Street in Worcester. The event was attended by State Senators and Representatives, a Healey Administration representative, Worcester City Officials and Departments, Pocasset Pokanoket Land Trust staff, and many other local nonprofit, legal, and academic leaders.
The event featured remarks from State Senator Robyn Kennedy, State Representative Mary Keefe, Worcester City Manager Eric D. Batista and Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty.
“The convenience of this location, and its ease of access by public transportation, was a major factor in selecting our new office.” Shared MCAD Commissioner Monserrate Rodríguez Colón during her remarks at Friday’s Grand Opening event. “I have been a resident of Worcester County for over 30 years, and I know the resilience of this community. We are very excited to be back in this great city, opening our doors to serve the people here and build connections with the incredible organizations in this area.”
Like the MCAD offices in Boston and Springfield, the Worcester office will play a pivotal role in the extended reach of its services that include intake services for claims of discrimination, proactive and responsive educational training, and other needs for matters related to discrimination.
“The new MCAD office puts vital resources in a central location and within a building filled with agencies that are championing access and inclusivity for community members who are seeking assistance. Thank you for coming back to this city to protect our residents so that all people, regardless of identity, can lead successful and dignified lives,” Worcester City Manager Eric D. Batista emphasized, reinforcing his steadfast commitment to DEI-centered efforts in uplifting the city.
“Eliminating discrimination is a part of every conversation. From the workplace, to housing, to education, discrimination robs people of opportunities, access, and a fair chance at a high quality of life,” said Senator Robyn Kennedy (D- First Worcester District). “Anti-discrimination laws ensure the rights of people are not violated. The MCAD meets our constituents at some of their toughest moments and we are grateful for the work the agency is doing.”
The MCAD Worcester office is now open to the public at 18 Chestnut Street (Room 520) Monday through Friday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
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Media Contact for Grand Opening of New MCAD Worcester Office Location Marks a Milestone in Advancing Civil Rights
Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
Established in 1946, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD or Commission) is the independent state agency that enforces the Massachusetts laws prohibiting discrimination in the fundamental spaces of daily life, including employment, housing, and public accommodations. The MCAD pursues its mission to eradicate discrimination in the Commonwealth through the investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of complaints of discrimination, preventative and remedial training, and education. Anyone who lives in, works in, or visits Massachusetts may file a complaint with the Commission if they believe they were treated differently or unfairly based on their identity as a member of a protected class, i.e., based on their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, ancestry, veteran status, age, disability, and military service, among others. Additionally, it is illegal in Massachusetts to deny a person housing because they receive public assistance or have a family with children. The MCAD currently has three offices open to the public in Boston, Springfield and Worcester where anyone can meet with an intake specialist for a free consultation and file a complaint. To learn more, visit www.mass.gov/mcad.