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.
Looking to join the MCAD? Check out our open jobs and internship opportunities: https://www.mass.gov/internships-job-opportunities-at-the-mcad