Jun 18, 2024 | Bakersfield, CA vs Hate, Front Page, Los Angeles, Valleys

California vs. Hate Launches Pride Tour to Support LGBTQ+ Communities

California vs. Hate celebrates Pride Month with a statewide tour, bolstering support for LGBTQ+ communities in their fight for equality. As part of a statewide outreach campaign, this initiative aims to ensure all Californians are aware of available resources for reporting hate incidents and to take a proactive stand against discrimination. By participating in LGBTQ+ events across various cities, California vs Hate provides essential resources and support.

(Photo credit: Zoe Cranfill AP News/Los Angeles Times)

OGNSC Staff

California vs. Hate celebrates Pride Month with a statewide tour, bolstering support for LGBTQ+ communities in their fight for equality. As part of a statewide outreach campaign, this initiative aims to ensure all Californians are aware of available resources for reporting hate incidents and to take a proactive stand against discrimination. By participating in LGBTQ+ events across various cities, California vs Hate provides essential resources and support.

The effort has received strong backing from key figures like Kevin Kish, Director of the California Civil Rights Department, who emphasizes the state’s commitment to celebrating diversity and combating hate and discrimination. Tony Hoang, Executive Director of Equality California, stresses the critical need for safe reporting avenues for LGBTQ+ individuals, given the rise in reported hate crimes.

Launched a year ago by Governor Newsom, California vs Hate operates as the state’s first multilingual hotline and online platform for reporting hate crimes. According to the California Department of Justice, reported hate crimes targeting people based on their sexual orientation increased by 29% from 2021 to 2022. Prompted by a significant increase in reported hate crimes, particularly those targeting sexual orientation or gender identity, the initiative addresses underreporting by offering a safe, community-centered approach, with a focus on care coordination and access to crucial resources. 

CA vs Hate addresses underreporting by offering resources to report incidents without involving law enforcement, providing ongoing support, including legal, financial, mental health, and mediation services. In its first year, CA vs Hate received approximately 1,020 reports, many concerning gender identity and sexual orientation.

The Pride Tour strengthens outreach efforts and showcases the digital Pride Collection, both aimed at supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout Pride Month, CA vs Hate will offer resources in five cities and unveil a float celebrating equality, unity, and allyship. The initiative encourages community partners and public participation in Pride Month events on the following dates:

CA vs Hate provides a safe and confidential reporting platform, available 24/7 online or by phone (Monday-Friday, 9 am – 6 pm PT). To report, call toll-free at 833-8-NO-HATE (833-866-4283) or visit CAvsHate.org. Reports can be made online in over 15 languages and by phone in over 200 languages. For emergencies, please call 911.

This resource was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library via California Black Media as part of the Stop the Hate Program. The program is supported by partnership with California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.