Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a "Hate Crime"?
A: Hate crimes are criminal acts or attempted criminal acts that are
motivated because of a person's actual or perceived race, color,
religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, or
disability. Because they threaten the very foundation on which our
country was created – equality for all – they attack not only the
individual victim, but our most cherished principles.
Source: Los Angeles District Attorney's website.
Q: What types of services are available
to victims?
A: There are a wide variety of services available to victims.
These services will vary by region The city of Long Beach has
established a Hate Crime Response Team to respond to incidences
throughout the city. Additionally, there is a Victim's
Advocate program, counseling services, etc.
Q: How do I find the specific services
available to victims?
A: Typically, cities, counties, and various non-profit organizations
have established Hotlines dedicated to victims of Hate Crimes.
Q: What if I am not the victim of the
Hate Crime? Should I report it anyway?
A: For a variety of reasons, Hate Crimes are underreported. If
you witness a Hate Crime, or know someone that has been attacked and
has not reported the Hate Crime, it is important that you report the
Hate Crime so that the perpetrators are punished, and to discourage
future attacks.