LA vs Hate Unveils Star-Studded Coalition to Tackle Rising Hate Crimes

In response to the alarming increase in hate crime incidents sweeping LA County, LA vs Hate has introduced the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition. This newly formed coalition brings together celebrities from the film industry stars, sports personalities, and artists who have come to unite against a common enemy known as “hate”, promoting unity culture across their region.

By Kathleen Untalan | Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California, Inc.

In response to the alarming increase in hate crime incidents sweeping LA County, LA vs Hate has introduced the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition. This newly formed coalition brings together celebrities from the film industry stars, sports personalities, and artists who have come to unite against a common enemy known as “hate”, promoting unity culture across their region.

Among the people on its launch lineup are TV star Alyssa Milano, NBA star Paul George, renowned comedian Tig Notaro, actress Chelsea Rendon, artist Nathan Davis Jr., and music producer KC Porter. Their involvement will not only provide more fame to this project but also make it possible for a significant number of people in society to understand that message and thus extend it further.

Launched in 2019 by the LA County Commission on Human Relations, the LA vs Hate has been a lifesaver in facilitating community anti-hate campaigns and support for those who have been attacked. Given that attacks on minorities in the county have increased by 18% from 790 to 929 in 2022, the highest rate in more than two decades, this initiative is more imperative than ever. That, added to the fact that hate crimes have risen by 143% since 2013, shows the need for this new coalition.

Currently, the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition is leading initiatives in United Against Hate Week, which will be from September 21 to September 28, 2024. This week-long, statewide event aims to mobilize communities to unite against hate and prejudice experienced in our schools, neighborhoods, and cities.

Robin Toma, Executive Director of the Los Angeles Commission on Human Relations, emphasized the coalition’s significance: “This coalition provides a unique space for individuals from diverse backgrounds to lend their unique lived experiences as experiences, as well as their power and privilege, to support the unity of all our communities against hate, hostility, and systemic discrimination. Together, we can make a significant difference in standing up to prejudice, bigotry, and inequity, and fulfilling our vision of a shared sense of belonging.”

Coalition members were enthusiastic about their roles. Alyssa Milano shared, “I’m joining the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition because the rates of hate are rising to dangerous levels and I want to inspire positive change in LA where I and my family call home.”

Paul George added, “I am joining LA vs Hate’s Unity Coalition because as a Los Angeles resident and community advocate, I want to do my part to push back against the rise of hate,”

Tig Notaro offered a straightforward yet powerful endorsement: “I’m joining the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition because why on earth would anyone not?”

Nathan Davis Jr., a local artist, emphasized his commitment: “I love my hometown for its incredible diversity that is reflected in the artistic expressions of me and so many other artists – and I’m going to do my part to stand up and protect it. Hate has no place in LA.”

Chelsea Rendon expressed her excitement saying, “I want to inspire positive change, especially in LA where I was born and raised. I’m honored to stand against hate today, join LA vs Hate in their efforts to stymie the spread of hate, and to use my influence to help create a more inclusive and kinder community for all to live in peace.”

Since its launch, the LA vs Hate hotline has been instrumental in managing hate incidents, receiving over 2,700 reports, with more than 800 coming in the last year alone. Nearly 88% of these callers have sought personal assistance, highlighting the essential role of support services provided by the initiative.

The LA vs Hate program offers a crucial alternative for victims who might hesitate to involve law enforcement, via online reporting to LAvsHate.org or calling 2-1-1, ensuring they receive the necessary support and resources. 

For more information on reporting hate crimes or accessing support services, visit CAvsHate.org or call 833-8-NO-HATE (833-866-4283). 

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.