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Hate Crimes Against LGBTQ+ Communities Surge

-Editorial

Reported hate crimes against LGBTQ+ communities continue to rise “at alarming rates” according to California Attorney General Rob Bonta, despite overall reported hate crimes decreasing by 7.1% in 2023 versus 2022. Data reported to DOJ in 2023 shows that between 2022 and 2023, there were 405 reported hate crime events motivated by sexual orientation bias (an increase of 3.6% from the previous year) and 76 hate crime events motivated by anti-transgender or anti-gender-nonconforming bias (an increase of 7.04% from the previous year).

Representatives from the California Civil Rights Department, community-based organizations that partner with the state’s first-ever multilingual hotline CA vs Hate, and LGBTQ+ advocates will discuss this rise, including how people may have different experiences of hate and discrimination depending on their race, age, class, gender, sexuality, and more. In addition, a recent LA Times/NORC poll on LGBTQ+ communities shows that while most Americans accept same-sex marriage, same-sex couples raising children, and laws to protect queer people from job discrimination, their approval drops off for trans and nonbinary people of all ages.

The speakers at this Ethnic Media Services panel shared their perspectives on these issues and increasing rates of hate in California and on a national level. They will also discuss the latest data from the first year of CA vs Hate, demonstrating how the LGBTQ+ community has helped shape the hotline and has been supported by the new reporting hotline and the services provided via the care coordination network.

Becky Monroe, Deputy Director of Strategic Initiatives and External Affairs at the California Civil Rights Department, highlighted the ongoing struggle against hate crimes during a recent briefing. Monroe emphasized that the Department’s mission is to protect Californians from all forms of unlawful discrimination, stating, “Our role extends beyond addressing hate crimes; it encompasses the broader spectrum of civil rights protections.”

Monroe addressed the alarming rise in hate crimes, particularly those targeting LGBTQ+ communities. She noted a consistent increase in acts of hate, citing a 29% rise in hate crimes based on sexual orientation between 2021 and 2022. Monroe also pointed out that reported hate crimes against transgender individuals increased by 10%, reflecting a troubling trend.

She acknowledged that data on hate crimes is often underreported, affecting both state and federal statistics. While the data shows a clear rise in hate crimes, it is crucial to recognize that this figure likely underrepresents the true extent of the issue.

To combat this, the Department has launched the “California Versus Hate” resource line, designed to offer support and guidance to victims of hate incidents and crimes. Monroe emphasized, “We aim to connect individuals with appropriate resources, whether they need legal assistance or cultural support, and ensure no one faces these challenges alone.”

The initiative includes outreach to community-based organizations and efforts to improve data collection, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling hate and discrimination across the state. Monroe concluded, “Our commitment is to address all forms of hate and provide support through various channels, reflecting the diverse needs of those affected.”

Andy Ruiz, Legal Support Staff and Grant Administrator at St. John’s Community Health Legal Services Department shared insights on the challenges faced by victims of hate crimes and the efforts to address them during a recent panel discussion. His work focuses on educating the public and empowering individuals to speak out against hate crimes, particularly those targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

Ruiz highlighted a troubling rise in violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, noting that political instability often exacerbates such violence. He pointed out a significant escalation in hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community, especially targeting transgender individuals and undocumented people. Ruiz explained that his role involves educating people about their rights and utilizing restorative justice to provide support.

He described a case where a victim of a hate crime faced bias from law enforcement but found relief through St. John’s efforts, which included advocacy and legal support. “This work is emotionally taxing, but it’s crucial to push back against systemic failures and ensure victims receive justice,” Ruiz explained.

Ruiz also emphasized the importance of reporting hate crimes. “Many victims, especially within Latino communities, are reluctant to report incidents due to cultural factors like machismo,” he said. “It’s vital to educate communities about the importance of reporting and seeking support.”

He concluded, “Reporting not only helps individuals get the support they need but also aids in shaping policies to prevent future incidents. Our work at St. John’s is to support victims and push for systemic change to address these issues.”

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