A civil right is an enforceable right or privilege, which if interfered with by another gives rise to an action for injury. Examples of civil rights are freedom of speech, press, and assembly; the right to vote; freedom from involuntary servitude; and the right to equality in public places. Discrimination occurs when the civil rights of an individual are denied or interfered with because of their membership in a particular group or class. Statutes have been enacted to prevent discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, previous condition of servitude, physical limitation, national origin, and in some instances sexual preference. Civil rights attorneys handle cases involving the rights of individuals to be free from unequal treatment (or discrimination) based on legally-protected characteristics such as race, gender, disability, national origin, age, sexual orientation, and religion. Civil rights cases can arise in a number of settings -- including employment, housing, lending, and education.
The City of Redmond Oregon, incorporated on July 6, 1910, is located on the eastern side of Oregon's Cascade Range and is considered the geographical heart of Central Oregon, within easy access to a multitude of recreational opportunities including mountain biking, fishing, hiking, camping, rock climbing, white-water rafting, skiing, and golf. Redmond is a progressive full-service municipality and one of the fastest growing industrial and residential communities in the State of Oregon. Redmond had a population of 13,481 in 2000 and has grown to an estimated population of 25,445 residents; the growth rate continues to be about 8% per year. This High Desert community encompasses 15 1/2 square miles (approx. 9,974 acres) and is located on a flat plateau, at an elevation of 3,077 feet above sea level. Redmond is 15 miles north of Bend, the county seat for Deschutes County; 144 miles from Portland; 129 miles from Salem, the State Capital; and 126 miles from Eugene.