ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore today announced the appointment of Cleveland L. Horton II as interim director for the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights. His appointment follows the retirement of the former executive director, Alvin O. Gillard, after nearly a decade of service. 

“We must do everything in our power to defend the precious rights that past generations fought for — and current and future generations deserve,” said Gov. Moore. “I thank Alvin O. Gillard for his service to the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights for the past ten years, and I thank Cleveland L. Horton II for raising his hand to serve. Under his leadership, we will continue to safeguard the freedom and dignity of all Marylanders.”

The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights ensures opportunity for all Marylanders through the enforcement of Maryland’s laws against discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and state contracts. The commission also provides educational outreach services and promotes and improves civil rights in Maryland through respect, integrity, and effective communication. 

Cleveland L. Horton II brings more than 15 years of experience with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights to his role as interim director, having most recently served as deputy director. Horton is an employment law compliance and equal employment opportunity regulations expert with extensive knowledge regarding the historical impact of state policies and procedures on all communities. 

Horton earned an associate’s degree from the Community College of Baltimore County and bachelor’s degree and MBA from the University of Baltimore. He is a member of the Coalition Opposed to Violence and Extremism, he serves on the Maryland Advisory Council on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and he is committed to serving and protecting the rights of all Marylanders.

A search is underway for a permanent executive director of the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights.