PHILADELPHIA, January 15, 2025 — Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced today that Kia Ghee, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations (PCHR) and the Fair Housing Commission (FHC), has stepped down from her position in City government, effective immediately. Ghee, who has served as the Executive Director of both agencies since June 2021, has been instrumental in implementing transformative initiatives aimed at fostering community connections and reducing gun violence in Philadelphia.
“I want to thank Kia Ghee for her service to our City,” said Mayor Parker. “Her leadership of these two vital agencies has protected thousands of Philadelphians from discrimination, and her work in establishing programs to reduce hate and violence has made a tangible difference in the lives of our residents.”
Ghee has been widely recognized for her contributions, including being named one of Philadelphia’s Most Influential African American Leaders by the Philadelphia Tribune from 2021 to 2024.
Reflecting on her time in office, Ghee stated, “Serving as Executive Director of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations and the Fair Housing Commission for nearly four years has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Working alongside Mayor Parker and her administration to advance equity, combat discrimination, and promote civil rights is work I will always cherish.”
Effective tomorrow, January 16, 2025, Randy Duque, PCHR’s Deputy Director for Community Relations, will step in as Acting Executive Director of PCHR. Duque, who has been with PCHR since 2014, is responsible for civil rights and race relations, hate and extremism prevention, and community engagement. He also oversees conflict resolution and mediation programs for individuals and households in disputes. Notably, Duque previously served as Acting Executive Director from December 2020 to June 2021.
PCHR is Philadelphia’s official civil rights agency, tasked with enforcing anti-discrimination laws, including the City’s Fair Practice Ordinance. The Fair Housing Commission ensures compliance with the City’s housing laws, protects tenants’ rights, and promotes fair treatment in housing matters. Both agencies play a key role in advancing Mayor Parker’s vision of making Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in America with economic opportunity for all.
This leadership transition underscores the City’s commitment to equity, civil rights, and community well-being as it continues to address challenges and build a more inclusive Philadelphia.
