How to Report a Hate Crime

Hate crime is a violent form of bigotry directed at members of minority groups. It is important that as American citizens, we all do our part in responding to hate crimes. Hate crimes do tremendous damage and cause injury not only to the victim, but to entire families and communities, leaving them angry, intimidated, fearful and suspicious. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Determine how to identify hate crimes, which can include not only murder or assault, but also vandalism, property damage, harassment, intimidation, name calling and threats. Hate crimes are crimes directed at people because of their age, color, race, religion, color, disability or sexual orientation.
2. Call the police immediately, and make sure that the officer notes the crime as a hate crime. Provide all relevant information to the responding police officer if you witnessed the crime. Try to remember details such as height, weight, build, race and age of the perpetrators involved. If you are the victim, save any evidence such as clothing, notes, or photographs and write down any relevant details of the hate crime as soon as possible.
3. Get medical attention for the victim(s) as soon as possible, if necessary. Make sure that the police are notified and that all relevant injuries are documented.
4. Fill out a "Hate Crime Reporting Form" online at the YouthWEB BiasHELP site, which is provide below. BiasHELP tracks hate crimes and related incidents occurring throughout the United States. You can remain anonymous if you prefer. You can also call BiasHELP at (877) END-BIAS.
5. Report a hate crime against gay, bisexual, lesbian, or transgendered individuals at Lambda's online reporting site, which is provided below.

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