The Kentucky Commission on Civil Rights (KyCHR) was created in 1966 with the passage of the Kentucky Civil Rights Act--the first statewide Civil Rights Act in the South. KyCHR's mandate is to safeguard all individuals within the state from discrimination because of familial status, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age 40 and over, or because of a person's status as a qualified individual with a disability as defined in KRS 344.010 and KRS 344.030; Thereby to protect their interest in personal dignity and freedom from humiliation, to make available to the state their full productive capacities, to secure the state against domestic strife and unrest which would menace its democratic institutions, to preserve the public safety, health, and general welfare, and to further the interest, rights, and privileges of individuals within the state.

The KyCHR, as an agency of state government, works on behalf of all Kentuckians. In 2000, the KyCHR created a Hall of Fame to honor Kentuckians who have made significant contributions to Kentucky's progress in the areas of civil and human rights. Hall of fame nominees and inductees can be living or deceased and from any time period. This tour highlights inductees who have also been honored with historical markers throughout the Commonwealth. Markers on the tour include those to individuals, as well as their homes, properties, or service. Lists Hall of Fame honorees, organized by years, are available at: https://kchr.ky.gov/halloffame/Pages/default.aspx