Title VI: Addressing Discrimination

TITLE VI: Ky Willson coordinates the City’s Title VI Program. For more information, go to houstontx. gov/obo/title-vi.html or contact Ky.Willson@houstontx.gov.

By: Julie Garay

The City of Houston is committed to diversity and fair employment, which has led to the implementation of programs and regulations that promote inclusivity and unity. One of those programs is administered in the Office of Business Opportunity (OBO). The Title VI Program, Plan, and Assurances, coordinated by Ky Willson, has the mission to ensure no person is subject to discrimination in the administration and execution of any City program, activity, or service.

This program is based on Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. As stipulated by the United States Department of Labor, Title VI, Civil Rights Act of 1964 states, "No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance."

The City of Houston seeks to ensure equity in access to its programs, activities, and services so that every citizen has the greatest opportunity to achieve and obtain the foundations necessary for self-sufficiency and success,

said Willson.

As the program coordinator, Willson is responsible for monitoring and ensuring city-wide compliance with the Title VI Program requirements, including complaint management, training, and outreach.