October 22, 2023
Governor Kathy Hochul today, in conjunction with the New York State Division of Human Rights’ Hate and Bias Prevention Unit, announced the launch of a new telephone hotline and online form allowing New Yorkers to report hate and bias incidents directly to HBPU. Alongside this announcement, HBPU encourages to all New Yorkers to contact the Unit if they or someone they know has experienced an incident involving hate or discrimination. Today’s announcement and reminder comes as Jewish, Arab, Muslim, and other communities across New York State and around the country face prejudice and violence in the aftermath of the horrific violence in Israel and Gaza.
“Hate is a cowardly thing, and no New Yorker should have to endure the discrimination it fuels,” Governor Hochul said. “It is crucial to stop any form of hate as soon as it emerges so that it has no opportunity to grow into a force that leads to the loss of life. Keeping New Yorkers safe is my top priority, and I am proud to launch this hotline so that everyone can quickly get the help they need.”
“During these times of profound loss and tremendous tragedy, we cannot give into the destructive impulse to hate, instead, let us look to the infinite power of love,” said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. “In New York, we will not let this moment divide us. We are committed to ensuring that every person in this state, regardless of religion or background, is protected from hate and supported with love. We will look out for each other and we will get through these tragedies together.”
The Division’s Hate and Bias Prevention Unit (HBPU) condemns all forms of hate and seeks to address acts of hate and bias that occur in New York State. While emergency situations and real-time incidents should be referred to 911 first, HBPU encourages all New Yorkers who have experienced an incident involving hate or discrimination, or who wish to participate in community anti-hate initiatives, to contact HBPU. HBPU stands ready to offer a wide range of assistance to community members, including assistance in filing complaints, organizing educational programming, hosting community dialogues, providing conflict resolution, and more.
Today’s announcement highlighted the Unit’s launch of a dedicated incident reporting hotline at 844-NO-2-HATE, and members of the public can also report incidents through HBPU’s online reporting form. Governor Hochul announced the plan for these new reporting mechanisms during an event at the Center for Jewish History in September.
Division of Human Rights Commissioner Maria L. Imperial said, “The Division of Human Rights will continue to work to ensure New Yorkers can live with dignity, fulfill their potential, and participate fully in the life of the state. Antisemitism and anti-Muslim bias have no place in our communities. It’s vital that we address hate here at home, and work with our neighbors and communities to build a better world, filled with love for all.”
Hate and Bias Prevention Unit Senior Director Joan Pangilinan-Taylor said, “The Hate and Bias Prevention Unit is here to assist New Yorkers in this difficult time. All of us should feel safe, welcome, and respected in our daily lives, without the painful experience of Antisemitism or Anti-Muslim bias. We encourage every individual in our state to speak out if they have experienced or witnessed a hate or bias incident, and contact us for help.”
Earlier this week, Governor Hochul led a bipartisan coalition of 17 governors to stand in solidarity with Israel, issuing a joint letter to federal leaders to express the broad support for Israel and condemnation of terror attacks from Hamas. Governor Hochul has led New York’s response to the crisis in Israel, offering support to Israeli President Isaac Herzog and meeting with Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan. She has attended multiple vigils and rallies in support of the State of Israel, from Albany to New York City. The Governor has also lit state landmarks in blue and white, the colors of Israel’s flag, raised the Israeli flag above the Governor’s residence in Albany, and directed flags on State buildings to be flown at half-staff to commemorate the victims of the Hamas terror attacks.
Launched by Governor Hochul in December 2022 and chaired by Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, HBPU has established 10 regional Hate and Bias Prevention Councils representing every region across the state. The councils are comprised of a diverse network of public and private stakeholders that include community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, law enforcement, government agencies, and other advocacy groups. HBPU also oversees a rapid response initiative, which offers support to communities impacted by hate or bias incidents. More information about the Hate and Bias Prevention Unit can be found here.
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