Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) is the independent state agency that enforces the anti-discrimination laws of the Commonwealth through training, mediation, investigation, prosecution and adjudication. The people of Massachusetts, its workers, and visitors may file a Complaint if they believe they were treated differently or unfairly in Massachusetts based on their identity as a member of a protected class. Complaints filed at the MCAD are investigated by an MCAD staff member to determine if there are sufficient facts to find that the treatment alleged constitutes unlawful discrimination. The MCAD conducts its investigation as a neutral entity. If it is more probable than not that there was an unlawful practice, the Complaint may move forward to prosecution and adjudication.

The MCAD has three offices, Boston, Springfield, and Worcester, where one can meet with an intake specialist for a free consultation and file a Complaint. The MCAD closed its New Bedford office temporarily while searching for a new office location in the region.

The MCAD also offers training and outreach to address and prevent discrimination. The Commission also conducts policy reviews, provide draft model policies online, and issues guidance on Acts that affect the work of the Commission.

M-F, 9-5pm

MCAD Springfield
436 Dwight Street, Room 220
Springfield, MA 01103
Phone: 413-739-2145
Fax: 413-784-1056

MCAD Worcester
484 Main Street, Room 320
Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: 508-453-9630
Fax: 508-755-3861

In all but a few exceptions, the MCAD cannot accept complaints based on incidents over 300 days old. You should review the MCAD Questionnaires

You should bring with you any relevant names, addresses, or telephone numbers, witnesses’ names, and any other paperwork that will help investigate and establish your allegation of unlawful discrimination. You should also be able to give the date the alleged discrimination occurred.

For an employment case: You should have your employer’s name, address, the approximate number of employees, and the name of the parent company, if applicable.

For a housing case: Supply the landlord’s or property manager’s name, the real estate company’s name, or the real estate agent’s name, if appropriate.

For public accommodations: Bring the name of the owner or manager of the establishment.

English, Portuguese, Creole, Chinese