Hate Crimes and Holidays: Give a Gift of Hope

The Hate-Crime Network offers both a web page and a toll free number (1-800-616-HATE) for survivors of hate crimes to break the silence and report their experiences. The website can be used internationally, the toll-free number is specific to the United States. With the victim's permission, the Network then publishes brief anonymous summaries of the reports on its website. These reports are also sent to every member of Congress.

Survivors who contact the Hate-Crime Network receive support from a victim advocate who offers advice and refers them to local resources. In addition, survivors can also choose to receive anonymous messages of support and hope from network volunteers. According to the administration of the Network, each incident notice generates between thirty and forty supportive emails, an amazing gift for people who may be feeling isolated, alone, even ashamed.

And that's where YOU, the reader, comes in. Hate-Crime Network relies on its volunteers. What could be a better holiday present than donating your time and compassion to help someone who has been victimized by a bias incident?

The Hate-Crime Network needs volunteers to:

Send personal messages to victims of hate crimes. Victims may be people of all ages, races, religions, genders, and sexual orientations. They have one thing in common: They all can benefit from support.

Become familiar with the site. Take part in discussions and bi-weekly volunteer chats.

Make donations-no "not for profit" ever has too much money!

Add a Hate-Crime Network graphic or banner to your website.

Spread the word. Tell everyone you know about hate crimes and Hate-Crime Network.

Participate in special projects. Help translate resource and incident reports in other languages. Create graphics for the site. Write articles for local papers and newsletters.

Become informed about hate crimes. Don't let them remain hidden!

It's been about two months since I signed up as a Hate-Crime Network volunteer. During that time, I've received dozens of incident reports, including the following:

A 19 year-old lesbian was recently assaulted and injured during an apparent anti-gay hate crime in Florida. The victim was physically attacked by a female and sustained injuries not considered serious. The assailant was accompanied by a man who had previously threatened the victim concerning her sexual orientation. Following the incident, police were contacted. No arrests were made. The victim was concerned for her safety and feared possible future attacks.

A Jewish family in Florida recently found a swastika painted on their garage door and bushes near their home

The copyright of the article Hate Crimes and Holidays: Give a Gift of Hope in Lesbian Issues is owned by Debra L. Stang. Permission to republish Hate Crimes and Holidays: Give a Gift of Hope in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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