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By Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt | Sponsored by the Prince William County Commission of Human Rights
Prince William County is defined by its extraordinary diversity. Home to individuals from nearly every background, the county’s vibrant population shapes its culture, economy, and community life. This rich diversity is not just a point of pride; it’s the foundation for the county’s approach to human rights. Established through Chapter 10.1 of the Prince William County Code, the Human Rights Commission and its Office were created to shield residents, employees, and visitors from unlawful discrimination, ensuring the county’s evolving population is treated with fairness and respect.
Certain groups, known as protected classes, are offered specific legal safeguards when it comes to employment, housing, public accommodations, financial transactions, and education. These protected classes include race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, familial status, marital status, and veteran status. Importantly, the services provided by the Commission are free and accessible, irrespective of an individual’s legal immigration status.
“Human rights are inherent rights that each individual has, not because they’re given by government, but because they’re born human,” explains Executive Director Raul Torres. “That grants them those rights.” It’s a philosophy that guides every initiative undertaken by the Commission.
Human Rights Office County Employee Training
Upholding Rights Through Action
A cornerstone of the Commission’s work is its robust effort to uncover and address discrimination. One of its most effective enforcement mechanisms is fair housing testing—an investigative process used to detect unlawful bias in housing practices. This initiative, alongside regular operational overviews, annual statistics, and a newsletter spotlighting issues impacting diverse communities, ensures that the agency’s efforts remain transparent and impactful.
The Commission also invests in the next generation of leaders. The Prince William County Human Rights Student Leadership Council (HRSLC) offers high school students a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills while exploring the complexities of diversity, human rights, and community engagement. The tenth cohort, launched in late 2025, brings together students from across the county to collaborate with officials on addressing discrimination and fostering inclusion. This year, the Commission graduated 52 high school students from the Student Leadership Council Cohort 10. The graduates represented a diverse range of Prince William County schools, private schools and homeschooled students. The graduation ceremony took place on Tuesday, April 28.
Each year, Universal Human Rights Day is a highlight, celebrating local leaders whose dedication to human rights sets an example for the community. It’s a reminder that the fight for equality is ongoing—and that progress is made by recognizing and uplifting those who champion it.
Human Rights Partners- EEOC and US Labor Dept
A Portrait of a Diverse Population
Prince William County’s population is a vivid mosaic of cultures, languages, and experiences. Recent U.S. Census data shows a community where no single group holds a majority: about 41–43% White (non-Hispanic), 20–22% Black or African American, 25–31% Hispanic or Latino, and 10–11% Asian. More than a quarter of the county’s residents were born outside the United States, and over a third communicate in a language other than English at home, with Spanish leading the way. This diverse makeup is mirrored in faith, as the county boasts Virginia’s highest levels of religious diversity. The Catholic community is the largest, while the Muslim population has grown beyond 5%, alongside established Protestant congregations, Orthodox Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and others. The result is a community where traditions and perspectives from around the world contribute to everyday life.
Diversity in Prince William County is not limited to race, ethnicity, or faith. It is also reflected in age, ability, and identity. About 6.3% of residents under 65 live with a disability, nearly 38% of local veterans report disabling conditions, and a robust LGBTQ+ community helps drive social progress. With more than a quarter of the population under 18, the county’s youth contribute to its energy and promise for the future.
A Mission Reflecting Community Strength
Despite national conversations about equality and inclusion, the reality has long been that minorities and marginalized groups have faced unequal treatment. Prince William County’s Human Rights Commission is determined to ensure that all residents have a fair and equal opportunity to thrive.
“The Commission’s mission is a reflection of the diversity found within PWC,” says Torres. “Our diversity is our strength, and we thrive because of it. I am proud to support the rights of those who make up our community.”
As Prince William County continues to grow and change, the Human Rights Commission remains a vigilant guardian of fairness, championing the dignity, opportunity, and equality of all.
This article is part of a series on Prince Wiliam County’s Human Rights Commission. For more information, visit pwcva.gov/department/human-rights.
Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt is a contributing writer to Prince William Living and also serves as the Social Media Manager.
