The Official Website of the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)

Commission

Chairman
Malcolm S. Medley

 

Commissioners
Malcolm S. Medley
Martin S. Ebel
Sunila Thomas George

 

Hours & Locations

As part of the MCAD's
cost-saving measures,
the walk-in hours to file a discrimination complaint in our Boston office have been reduced by one hour. Complainants are asked to arrive before 4 pm to allow sufficient time to file their complaint. To check walk-in hours for our Springfield and Worcester offices, please click on the office location below.

 

Hours: 8:45 am - 4:00 pm

Boston Office
(617) 994-6000
(617) 994-6024 (Fax)

Springfield Office
(413) 739-2145
(413) 784-1056 (Fax)

Worcester Office
(508) 799-8010
(508) 799-8490 (Fax)

New Bedford Office
(508) 990-2390
(508) 990-4260 (Fax)

Frequently Asked Questions

More Frequently Asked Questions

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MCAD PROVIDES PROTECTION AGAINST TRANSGENDER DISCRIMINATION

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) ruled in 2001 that, under Chapter 151B of the Massachusetts General Laws, a transgender individual is protected from discrimination in employment and may file a based on their gender. The MCAD has, as early as 2001, investigated and adjudicated complaints of discrimination in employment from transgender individuals. It should be noted that the MCAD supports the legislative effort to add transgender as one of the protected categories under the state Fair Employment Act, M.G. L. c. 151B. Recently proposed legislation, if passed, will reinforce the MCAD's position that discriminating against someone based on their gender identity or expression is against the laws of this Commonwealth.

Anyone who lives or works in this state who believes he or she has experienced harassment, discrimination, or retaliation in employment, housing, or public accommodations on account of their transgender status can file a complaint at any MCAD office. Additional information may be found at this website.

Have you been discriminated against?
We can help!

Watch a public service announcement from the MCAD.

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination is the state's chief civil rights agency. The Commission works to eliminate discrimination on a variety of bases and areas, and strives to advance the civil rights of the people of the Commonwealth through law enforcement, outreach and training. For a complete list of protected classes in the Areas of Discrimination.

How does the MCAD process work?

Practical Guide to the Complaint Process at the MCAD

A charge of discrimination must be filed in person at the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) offices. If you believe you have been discriminated against, you should come to the MCAD immediately to file a complaint. In all but a few exceptions, the MCAD cannot accept complaints based on incidents over 300 days old.

MEETINGS AND HEARINGS

Monthly Commissioners' Meetings

Town Hall Meetings

Public Hearings

 

Training

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) provides training to the public, including:

  • Supervisors and Managers
  • Attorneys
  • Housing Providers
  • Community Groups
  • Employees
  • Human Resource Professionals
  • Realtors
  • Tenants and Home Buyers

MCAD workplace-based training for employees, supervisors, and managers is provided to employers. Training sessions range from two hours to four days, depending on the topics covered. All training programs include a number of interactive exercises, such as case studies, role plays, and quizzes.

More about Training