The Whatcom Human Rights Task Force was established following a cross-burning at a migrant worker's camp near Lynden, Washington in August 1994. This incident brought concerned individuals and organizations together in defense of local human rights, and to protect community members against discrimination and harassment. The Whatcom Human Rights Task Force (WHRTF) was established to protect and promote human rights including “the right to be treated with dignity and to live without fear of violence, intimidation or discrimination due to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, political opinion or other arbitrarily assigned status.” *

The creation of WHRTF was part of a regional response to hate crimes, and the activities of anti-government militia groups that occurred in the Pacific Northwest in the 1990s. WHRTF received early direction and support from the Northwest Coalition Against Malicious Harassment, a non-profit umbrella group founded in 1987.

From its inception, the WHRTF has sought to educate community members about human rights issues, and to advocate for individuals and groups affected by discrimination. The organization adopted the symbol and slogan “Joining Hands Against Hate,” displayed by many supportive individuals and businesses in Bellingham and Whatcom County.

Activities of the WHRTF have included the organization of and participation in marches and vigils, community workshops, and other educational events. Since 1999, the WHRTF has organized an annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Human Rights conference in Bellingham. WHRTF also holds an annual Awards Banquet honoring members of the community who have made significant contributions relating to human rights issues. As partners in the Whatcom Civil Rights Project, WHRTF staff, interns and volunteers also provide support and referral services for victims of civil rights abuses.

*Source: Mission statement, Whatcom Human Rights Task Force.