Human Rights Commission

The Berea, KY Human Rights Commission (HRC) supports and encourages fair treatment and equal opportunity for all people regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or physical disability. The city ordinance that establishes the HRC (No. 9-2011) further details that the Commission will promote mutual understanding and respect among all economic, social, racial, religious, sex, age, and ethnic groups. The Commission will endeavor to eliminate discrimination within our community.

John G. Fee & Janice Blythe Award

The Dr. Janice Blythe Youth Award, previously known as the Youth Award, was renamed in 2020 to honor the Late Dr. Janice Blythe, a prominent social justice advocate and longtime commissioner of the BHRC. This Award is presented to a remarkable youth aged 22 or younger who has actively promoted social justice and fought against discrimination in Berea. 

The John G. Fee Social Justice Award, first bestowed in 2013, recognizes the outstanding efforts of a Berea resident or group who has championed human rights within the community. The inaugural award was granted to the "Concerned Citizens of Berea" organization, which played an instrumental role in resolving tensions following a tragic racial incident in 1968. The award was accepted by surviving members Robert Shaffer and Loyal Jones, with relatives of the founding African-American members present, adding to the significance of the occasion. 


The Berea Human Rights Commission(BHRC) is excited to announce that 2026 Nominations are now open. The deadline to submit nominations is October 20, 2026.
2026 John G.Fee & Janice Blythe Award Nomination

How to Spread the Word

Make sure others in your community know where to go for help. Spread the word to ensure that business owners, property managers, co-workers, family, and friends understand the value of diversity, the benefits of promoting equal opportunities and the value of non-discrimination in our community.