DC Human Rights Commission Nominees Present Visions for Equity and Justice
September 26, 2025 | Committee on Public Works and Operations, Committees, Legislative, District of Columbia
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The District of Columbia's Committee on Public Works and Operations convened on September 26, 2025, to discuss the appointment of nominees to the Human Rights Commission. The meeting featured a diverse panel of candidates, each bringing unique expertise and experience in advocating for marginalized communities and promoting social justice.
Mr. Sim Singh Buttarawala, director of the Anti Hate Program at Asian Americans Advancing Justice, highlighted his extensive work in combating hate-based violence and discrimination against Asian American communities. His background includes significant roles in federal initiatives aimed at addressing hate crimes and systemic bias.
Ms. Alexis Gardner, an assistant federal public defender in DC, shared her commitment to defending marginalized groups. She co-founded Still She Rises, the first public defender office for women in Tulsa, and has maintained a perfect jury trial record while mentoring future lawyers since joining the Federal Public Defender's office in 2020.
Ms. Carmen Moreno Sanz, a Spanish teacher at Winston Churchill High School, emphasized her advocacy for human rights through education. With a focus on language as a tool for social justice, she has worked to support refugees and promote gender equality.
Mr. Sean Norman, a deaf and queer advocate, serves as president of the DC Association of the Deaf. His involvement in both the deaf and LGBTQ+ communities includes roles in education and advocacy, notably as a deaf interpreter at DC Pride.
Miss Jasmine Lee Scott, a community support worker at The Healthy Place, discussed her background in emergency services and her dedication to empowering underserved families through outreach and nonprofit initiatives.
Ms. Isabel Vladeau, an international human rights law specialist, has trained over 15,000 individuals on various human rights issues. Her work includes organizing global summits and collaborating with policymakers to address pressing human rights challenges.
Mr. Ashley Smith, president of the Capital Pride Alliance, brings over 20 years of experience in hospitality and a strong commitment to LGBTQ+ equality. His leadership roles in various organizations reflect his dedication to inclusion and representation.
The committee expressed the importance of filling these commission positions to ensure the ongoing protection of human rights in the district. The nominees shared their visions and qualifications, underscoring the critical need for advocacy in today's climate. The meeting concluded with a commitment to advancing the work of the Human Rights Commission in the District of Columbia.
Mr. Sim Singh Buttarawala, director of the Anti Hate Program at Asian Americans Advancing Justice, highlighted his extensive work in combating hate-based violence and discrimination against Asian American communities. His background includes significant roles in federal initiatives aimed at addressing hate crimes and systemic bias.
Ms. Alexis Gardner, an assistant federal public defender in DC, shared her commitment to defending marginalized groups. She co-founded Still She Rises, the first public defender office for women in Tulsa, and has maintained a perfect jury trial record while mentoring future lawyers since joining the Federal Public Defender's office in 2020.
Ms. Carmen Moreno Sanz, a Spanish teacher at Winston Churchill High School, emphasized her advocacy for human rights through education. With a focus on language as a tool for social justice, she has worked to support refugees and promote gender equality.
Mr. Sean Norman, a deaf and queer advocate, serves as president of the DC Association of the Deaf. His involvement in both the deaf and LGBTQ+ communities includes roles in education and advocacy, notably as a deaf interpreter at DC Pride.
Miss Jasmine Lee Scott, a community support worker at The Healthy Place, discussed her background in emergency services and her dedication to empowering underserved families through outreach and nonprofit initiatives.
Ms. Isabel Vladeau, an international human rights law specialist, has trained over 15,000 individuals on various human rights issues. Her work includes organizing global summits and collaborating with policymakers to address pressing human rights challenges.
Mr. Ashley Smith, president of the Capital Pride Alliance, brings over 20 years of experience in hospitality and a strong commitment to LGBTQ+ equality. His leadership roles in various organizations reflect his dedication to inclusion and representation.
The committee expressed the importance of filling these commission positions to ensure the ongoing protection of human rights in the district. The nominees shared their visions and qualifications, underscoring the critical need for advocacy in today's climate. The meeting concluded with a commitment to advancing the work of the Human Rights Commission in the District of Columbia.
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