Franklin Thompson to head Human Rights and Relations Department

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert has announced the selection of Dr. Franklin Thompson to lead the City of Omaha Human Rights and Relations Department.

Thompson is a veteran member of the city council, community leader and education.

According to a news release from the mayor’s office, “Dr. Thompson’s areas of expertise are race relations, human relations, multicultural education, conflict management and counseling.”

The mayor is quoted as saying, “I have worked with Dr. Thompson for eight years, first as colleagues on the Omaha City Council and later as mayor. He has the unique mix of professional, academic and management skills to assist citizens and lead the staff of the Human Rights and Relations Department.”

The Human Rights and Relations Department investigates discrimination complaints and civil rights violations, conducts community outreach to promote diversity, provides administration support to several volunteer boards and commissions, administers the certification process for the Small and Emerging Business program and monitors city contracts for compliance with the city’s economic inclusion requirements.