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Maryland Commission on Civil Rights

Confidentiality

Information obtained from individuals who contact MCCR is confidential and will not be revealed to the Respondent until the individual files a charge of discrimination. When an individual contacts MCCR, they will be asked to provide information which may include the following:

  • The individual's name, address, telephone number, date of birth
  • Social Security Number (optional)
  • Name, address and telephone number of the Respondent
  • An employer's approximate number of employees
  • Date(s) of harm
  • Respondent's explanation for its actions (if available)
  • Why the individual believes that the action taken against him/her was discriminatory
  • Names of individuals who were treated more favorably (if applicable)

This information is collected so MCCR can determine if we have jurisdiction to investigate the complaint, and will be used to prepare the Charge of Discrimination. Information may be shared with either the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC") or the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development ("HUD") under MCCR's contractual worksharing agreements with both federal agencies. EEOC and HUD employees are subject to strict confidentiality requirements under federal law.

Once a charge is filed, the individual's name and the information contained within the Charge of Discrimination will be disclosed to the Respondent ONLY. Under MCCR's confidentiality law, MCCR cannot release any information to the public about a case, including if a case is or was investigated by MCCR, until the matter reaches a stage of public hearing (such as the Office of Administrative Hearings, or State or federal court). When releasing information, MCCR adheres to required information protections, such as the exemptions within the Maryland Public Information Act and other applicable laws that protect critical information including, but not limited to, personally identifiable information (PII), medical information, and personal financial information.

Filing Anonymously

It is possible to file a complaint alleging unlawful discrimination anonymously, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Choosing to remain anonymous may make it difficult for MCCR to conduct a thorough investigation, as we may be unable to contact you for more information. Therefore, it's important to consider the potential impact of anonymity on the investigation before making a decision.