Outreach and youth programming

 

How CHRO works with communities

Education and outreach is a key part of our mission here at the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO). We hold events throughout the year to bring attention to civil rights issues in Conneticut. Our work with the public includes:

  • Career fairs, school visits, and youth programs
  • Trainings and community events
  • Partnerships with local organizations and state leadership
  • Explore this page for an overview of our education and outreach events.
Find our recent and upcoming outreach events  
 

2026 Community Access Fair

The State of Connecticut’s 2024 Equity and Disparity Studies found that, even when state agencies are making their best efforts, they often struggle to make connections with the communities that most need the help of government programs.

CHRO is organizing the 2026 Community Access Fair to connect Connecticut residents with state agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups.

Find out more about the Community Access Fair  

Youth programs and events


 

Connecticut Kids Court Academy

KCA is an online program for middle and high school students. It teaches about civil rights and fairness. This program help students share ideas and learn from others in a safe space.

 

Kids Court Essay Competition and Kids Speak

CHRO hosts the annual Kids Court Essay Competition, a program where students write essays about civil rights topics. The highest-scoring students will proceed to an oral competition where they can compete for prizes.

 

The Civil Rights Youth Summit

CHRO sponsors an annual event helping middle and high school students explore careers in public interest law and social justice. Learn more about this attorney pipeline program.

Youth blogs

 
Read blog posts from our interns about their experiences working with CHRO.
 
Teen Talk is a series of essays written by CHRO interns about current civil rights issues, historical figures, and things that matter to Connecticut communities.
 
From Me to You is a program where students in Connecticut read stories aloud for others. It also helps them connect, speak up, and share ideas with their communities.
 

CHRO internships

CHRO offers internships in its Executive Office, Legal Division, and Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance Unit to motivated law school, undergraduate, and high school students. Interns with CHRO gain extensive experience in all aspects of our work, from investigating, mediating, and litigating discrimination cases, to organizing and leading education and outreach events, to assisting with state recruitment, and much more.

Learn about internship opportunities  
 

CHRO brochures

Review CHRO's brochures on our services and learn about discrimination law in Connecticut.

Browse CHRO brochures  
 

MLK Children’s March for Peace

The MLK Children’s March for Peace honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The march teaches the children about peace, fairness and respect. Young people come together to be kind and help their communities.

Learn more about the march