Local Resources
The Austin/Travis County Hate Crimes Task Force
The Austin/Travis County Hate Crimes Task Force was officially launched on December 15th, 2010. Conveners included Austin Anti-Defamation League; Austin City Council members, Sheryl Cole, Laura Morrison, and Randi Shade; as well as the Community Justice Council, led by David Escamilla (Travis County Attorney) and Rosemary Lehmberg (Travis County District Attorney). More than 70 persons representing 40 different organizations/departments participated in that discussion and reached consensus to form a local Hate Crimes Task Force initiative. A Steering Committee was created of stakeholders to bring back recommendations regarding structure, work processes, and scope of work. The Steering Committee brought their recommendations to the Task Force on April 14, 2011 for endorsement. More information here.
African American Resource Advisory Commission
The duty of this body is to advise the city council on issues relating to the quality of life for the City's African American community and to recommend programs designed to alleviate any inequities that may confront African Americans in social, economic, and vocational pursuits. This includes health care, housing (i.e. affordable housing, home ownership and homelessness), entertainment opportunities for professionals and students, employment, and cultural venues (i.e. museums, theaters, art galleries and music venues).
This commission meets the first Wednesday of every month. For more information or to get involved, please follow this link to the Austin Government website.
This commission meets the first Wednesday of every month. For more information or to get involved, please follow this link to the Austin Government website.
The African American Cultural and Heritage Facility
Located at The Dedrick-Hamilton house, a historic structure at 912 East 11th Street, The AACHF was home to the family of one of the first freed slaves in Travis County. The house was designated for renovation and expansion to become the African American Visitors Bureau to highlight the history of the culturally rich neighborhood.
The area, referred to as the heart of the African American community in East Austin, once hosted some of the most famous rhythm and blues singers at the nearby Victory Grill and was integral in the civil rights movement. The facility will add to this cultural significance with programming for arts, culture, and entertainment, and it will house the Capital City African American Chamber of Commerce that provides services focused on supporting African American businesses citywide. Activities will be scheduled in partnership with the community.
The area, referred to as the heart of the African American community in East Austin, once hosted some of the most famous rhythm and blues singers at the nearby Victory Grill and was integral in the civil rights movement. The facility will add to this cultural significance with programming for arts, culture, and entertainment, and it will house the Capital City African American Chamber of Commerce that provides services focused on supporting African American businesses citywide. Activities will be scheduled in partnership with the community.
Mission Accomplished
Mission Accomplished is a nonprofit organization with its federal 501(c)(3) status which currently serves the Greater Austin area. The organization’s primary goal is to provide resources and assistance to individuals and families that need a helping hand to reach the next level. Learn more here.
Office of Police Oversight
The Office of Police Oversight is the vehicle for citizens to voice and file complaints against Austin Police Department officers. Complaints are accepted by phone, mail, email, fax or in person. Their office is located at 1520 Rutherford Lane in Austin, Texas and their phone number is 512-974-9090. Download a complaint form here. The Office of Police Oversight provides all its annual reports to the public online. For more information, follow this link to see its official site.