SACRAMENTO — As diverse communities across the nation continue to be targeted by increased acts of hate, including communities of color, religious groups, and LGBTQ+ communities, Gov. Gavin Newsom Aug. 23 announced additional resources, funding and guidance to empower and protect Californians. Following recent high-profile incidents, including the horrific murder of a shop owner in Southern California, the State’s new investments and resources seek to further fight hate by building on California’s efforts to empower diverse communities and address discrimination. The new actions include:
$91.4 million to 173 local organizations across the state to support victims, provide resources, and facilitate anti-hate prevention measures.
The first major statewide media campaign entitled “CA vs Hate” with print, radio and digital ads that will run in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Korean, Tongan, Mixtec and Hmong. The campaign will focus on traditionally hard-to-reach communities.
A letter to all public school leaders in California highlighting the legal responsibilities to ensure ethnic studies curricula –– which give students a chance to “see” themselves in the fabric of our state –– are appropriate and do not reflect or promote bias, bigotry or discrimination.
“An attack on any of our communities is an attack on everything we stand for as Californians,” said Gov. Newsom. “As hate-fueled rhetoric drives increasing acts of bigotry and violence, California is taking action to protect those who are targeted just for being who they are. We’re bolstering our support for victims and anti-hate programs and tackling ignorance and intolerance through education to prevent hate from taking hold in our communities.”
Today’s announcements come as hate crimes, and racial, religious, sexual orientation and gender bias events have increased in California. And in the first month since the launch of the “CA vs Hate” hotline, there have been 180 reports of hate acts across California.