Joshua Barr, the city of Des Moines’ civil and human rights director, is stepping down from the position that he has held for the past six years. A release said that Barr is leaving the city “to pursue other interests.”

Barr’s “tireless efforts and unwavering dedication led to new perspectives and a renewed belief in each other – and for that, we are now a better city,” Mayor Frank Cownie said in a prepared statement.

A highlight of Barr’s time with the city is the implementation of Bridging the Gap, an initiative that works to achieve long-term community change that is systemic, sustainable, equitable and inclusive through policy, according to the release. The initiative focuses on the areas of community and government relations, refugee and immigrant rights, and LGBTQ+ rights.

In 2020, Barr’s documentary, “Breaking Bread, Building Bridges,” earned the Governor’s Emmy Award from the Upper Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The project was conceived and directed by Barr to determine what happens when people are asked to spend time with those who have different backgrounds and life experiences.

Civil rights investigations under Barr’s tenure increased by more than 168% and probable cause discrimination findings increased by 500%. Two months ago, the Des Moines Civil and Human Rights Commission won a court case against a landlord who engaged in housing discrimination by discouraging potential tenants from renting housing units due to their religion or national origin.

Barr’s last day with the city is July 23. An interim director will be appointed while a national search for a successor is conducted.

Related article: Des Moines Civil and Human Rights Commission has stepped up pursuit of discrimination cases