What is Hate?

What Is Hate?

In the context of the law, “hate” is bias against a person or group of people based on specific characteristics that are defined and protected by state or federal law. Many Californians may be used to experiencing everyday moments of racism, sexism, homophobia, or other forms of discrimination. We do not have to accept these situations as normal, and recognizing them as a form of hate is the first step. 

You or someone you know has likely experienced hate. You can  report if someone is targeted based on characteristics like:

  • Race

  • Ethnicity

  • Religion

  • National Origin

  • Sexual Orientation

  • Gender

  • Gender Identity

  • Disability

What Is a Hate Incident?

A hate incident is an incident or behavior motivated by hate, but does not meet the legal definition of a crime. These incidents are the most prevalent and pervasive form of hate, appearing in everyday situations and places. They might also violate civil laws. Recognizing and reporting these incidents helps the people who experienced them, and also sends a message that this conduct is not acceptable in our shared spaces. Incidents can include:

  • Name-calling, insults, or derogatory language

  • Racist, xenophobic, homophobic, and transphobic slurs 

  • Making intimidating or derogatory jokes 

  • Displaying hate material on a property

  • Distributing materials with hate messages in public

What is a Hate Crime?

A hate crime is a crime motivated by a person’s perceived or actual identity and can be criminally prosecuted in court. Combined with an act of hate, these crimes can include:

  • Physical violence: assault, murder or attempted murder, sexual assault

  • Property crimes: vandalism, arson, graffiti, damage to property

  • Threats

How does CA vS Hate support communities?

Individual people and whole communities may experience trauma and long-term impacts after an act of hate. YOU can still take action. When a hate incident or crime occurs and is reported to CA vs Hate, care coordinators connect YOU with support services and resources, including mental health support, community advocacy, trauma and healing services, filing a civil rights complaint, legal aid, mediation, and more.

why is it important to report, even if it’s not a crime?

Experiencing hate can impact our psychological and mental health, social and financial wellness, and our broader communities. Victims may withdraw from social settings or activities that may feel unsafe or feel less motivated because of the impacts of trauma. This is why it is important to report any acts of hate, no matter the level, to get support and heal.

Individuals and communities can take action and get connected to support that:

  • Can help prevent future harm

  • Encourages anyone impacted to take action, get support, and heal 

  • Promotes healing and solidarity within communities

  • Drives policy, systems, and cultural change