California Bolsters Efforts Against Rising Hate Crimes with Enhanced Hotline and Resources
Al Enteshar Newspaper
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In a significant stride toward combating hate crimes, the California Civil Rights Department announced the expansion of the California vs Hate hotline and resource network, in response to the alarming increase in reported hate incidents.
The state has recognized the urgent need to support historically underserved communities amidst a concerning uptick in hate crimes. The California vs Hate initiative, serving as a safe and anonymous option for victims and witnesses of hate, has been strengthened to facilitate reporting and offer assistance.
According to the California Civil Rights Department, the expanded non-emergency, multilingual hate crime reporting hotline and online portal are pivotal in this initiative. The hotline, available at 833-866-4283, operates Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PST, while the online portal remains accessible round the clock. This extensive service offers support in 15 different languages through the online portal and over 200 languages via the hotline.
In situations requiring immediate law enforcement intervention or in cases of imminent danger, the Department urges individuals to call 9-1-1.
The initiative also encompasses an anti-hate resource hub, which includes access to mental health, financial, and legal services. This holistic approach underscores the state’s commitment to not only address hate crimes but also provide comprehensive support to those affected.
Kevin Kish, Director of the California Civil Rights Department, emphasized California’s leadership in anti-hate efforts. “California is leading the nation in our efforts to combat hate,” he said. “There is no place for hate in our state, and I encourage everyone to use California vs Hate to report and get support.”
Data from the California Civil Rights Department reveals a disturbing trend, with reported hate crimes in California reaching their highest levels since 2001. There was a stark increase of over 20% in reported hate crimes between 2021 and 2022.
The Ca vs Hate resource hub, which was unveiled last year, reported a rise in preliminary hate incident reports following the onset of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, jumping from 171 to 237 in the three months after the conflict began compared to the preceding three months.
In response to this escalation, the state of California has expanded funding for additional security at places of worship and non-profits. Furthermore, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Executive Order N-16-22 in 2022, directing state agencies to enhance and expand anti-hate policies.
Governor Newsom strongly reiterated the state’s stance against hate. “Hate does not belong in California,” he stated. “By expanding resources and tools, the California Civil Rights Department is making our communities safer and promoting healing.”
This robust response by California, integrating resource expansion and policy enhancement, reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling the rise in hate crimes and fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for all its residents.
Alenteshar Newspaper will continue to monitor and report on the developments in California’s efforts to combat hate crimes and support affected communities.
https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/ca-vs-hate-page/
This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.
