Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a new hotline to report hate incidents in the state. The governor also announced an online form is available to report incidents of hate or bias.
"Hate is a cowardly thing, and no New Yorker should have to endure the discrimination it fuels," said Gov. Hochul in a statement on Friday. "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," added Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado in a statement. "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.
Friday'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.
Gov. Hochul announced the plan for these new reporting mechanisms during an event at the Center for Jewish History in September.
