Kelly Bentdahl
Philosophy Major
“I’m an Educator Not a Litigator:” Balancing Enforcement and Teaching in Anti-Discrimination Law
The Massachusetts Commission against Discrimination was founded in 1946. Though its jurisdiction has expanded greatly since then, its mission remains the same: to eradicate discrimination in the state of Massachusetts. In pursuit of this goal, the Commission is empowered to enforce both state and federal anti-discrimination laws on behalf of the Commonwealth. It is also instructed to educate the public and must balance these two objectives, often choosing whether to prioritize sanctioning those who violate the law, and instilling in them a belief in the importance of preventing harassment and discrimination. As an enforcement intern with the Commission, Kelly investigated claims of discrimination in employment and public accommodations and became a part of the conversation on balancing enforcement and education in the fight to eliminate discrimination. She gained investigative and legal writing skills, as well as an appreciation for the important role of government in fighting prejudice and promoting pluralism.