‘CA vs Hate’ hotline launched to report, avert hate acts in California

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom (speaking at the mic) leads California community leaders in the formal launch of CA vs Hate, a new multilingual statewide hotline and website, at the steps of the state capitol in Sacramento,
By Claire Morales True and Jun NucumSACRAMENTO, California – In response to a rise in hate crimes and at the start of Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Governor Gavin Newsom, along with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), launched “CA vs Hate,” a new multilingual statewide hotline and website that provides a safe, anonymous reporting option for victims and witnesses of hate acts.
“CA vs Hate,” said to be a first in the country, is in direct response to the rise in reported hate crimes in California, which in recent years, reached their highest levels since 2001 – jumping almost 33% from 2020 to 2021, Newsom said in a statement sent to Philippine News Today. (See earlier and related stories inside.)
“Here in California, we are sending an unequivocal message that hate will not be tolerated,” said Governor Newsom. “We stand firm for a California for All and it is important that we hold perpetrators accountable for their actions and provide resources for those individuals victimized by hate crimes.”
Governor Newsom said the project is an offshoot of Newsom and the legislature’s investment of $110 million into anti-hate programs.
“We stand firm for a California for All and it is important that we hold perpetrators accountable for their actions and provide resources for those individuals victimized by hate crimes. Now, Californians have another tool to ensure that not only justice is served, but that individuals have access to additional resources to help deal with the lingering wounds that remain after such a horrendous crime occurs,” stressed Newsom.
For his part, State Attorney General Rob Bonta said that he is proud of this effort to help California’s diverse communities report hate incidents and connect them to resources.
“Hate is not welcome in California. There is no place for hate in California and now more than ever we must stand united against hate and extremism,” Bonta stressed. “By utilizing every resource possible, we will raise awareness around the staggering rise in hate crimes and proactively prevent future extremism from occurring. Every Californian deserves to feel safe in their cities and communities and those responsible must be brought to justice.”
“With the launch of the Ca vs Hate Resource Line and Network, we unequivocally state that there is no home or place for hate in California,” said Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency Secretary Lourdes Castro Ramírez. “We are doubling down on our commitment to combat hate by embracing the strength of our diversity and empowering Californians with resources and support to prevent and end hate in all forms.”
“California is strong because of our diversity but hate-fueled violence remains a persistent and growing threat,” said CRD Director Kevin Kish. “With the launch of CA vs Hate, we’re taking action to help put a stop to hate and to provide support for victims, survivors, and their families. In the face of hate across the nation, we stand united in declaring: California is for everyone. I urge all Californians to know their rights and to take advantage of these important resources.”
The campaign through the hotlines with multilingual outreach to emphasize community engagement, aims to support efforts that encourage reporting and access to resources through targeted public service announcements.
It also seeks to overcome reporting challenges – whether due to fear of retaliation, lack of trust, or other issues – by offering people targeted for hate a community-centered approach that does not require engagement with the criminal legal system.
For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911. For more information on CA vs Hate, visit CAvsHate.org.