The Equality and Human Rights Commission came into being on 1 October 2007. It combines the responsibilities and powers of the three previous equality commissions.
The equality commissions' legacy
Before the Equality and Human Rights Commission, the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE), the Disability Rights Commission (DRC) and the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) had responsibility for promoting racial, disability and sex equality in Britain.
The following comments represent just a small portion of the appreciation many have expressed for the work, and achievements, of the CRE, DRC and EOC.
"The work done by Britain’s three original equalities commissions will serve as an example to Europe of what can be achieved by hard work, common sense and goodwill"
Barbara Follett
Minister for Equality
"Legislation has been very important. But the over-riding legacy of the commissions has been to ensure that Britain moves beyond the letter of the law and embraces the true spirit of equality."
Trevor Phillips
Chair, Equality and Human Rights Commission
"The legacy commissions 'have made an extraordinary contribution to the nation we are today. In 2007, Britain is a place where women play a recognised and valued role in the workplace; a place where people debate difference even in the light of national security threats; and a place where the plight of disabled people is ever more understood across society"
Cherie Booth QC
Legacy commission websites
For a limited period of time we are making the legacy commission websites available for you to browse old campaigns, research and publications. You can access the archive websites here.