The Michigan Department of Civil Rights was established in 1965 to provide a staff complement to the policy making responsibilities of the Commission. In 1991, the Department was expanded further. During that year, the Michigan Women's Commission was transferred from the Department of Management and Budget to this agency by Executive Order.

The Department of Civil Rights works to prevent discrimination through educational programs that promote voluntary compliance with civil rights laws and investigates and resolves discrimination complaints. It also provides information and services to businesses on diversity initiatives, equal employment law, procurement opportunities and feasibility studies, and joint venture/strategic alliance matchmaking.

A complaint may be filed at any of the Department's regional centers or satellite offices, if the alleged discrimination has occurred within the past 180 days.