A hate incident is a hostile expression or action that may be motivated by bias against another person’s actual or perceived identity.

Perpetrators may be motivated by different discriminatory biases, including, but not limited to; bias based on race, color, disability, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender, including gender identity.

Some examples of hate incidents can include: derogatory name calling, bullying, hate mail, and refusing service.

Under California law, a hate crime is a criminal act committed, in whole or in part, because of one or more of the following actual or perceived characteristics of the victim: disability, gender, gender identity, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation; or because of the person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.

Callers will be connected with a professional trained in culturally competent communication and trauma-informed practices.

Whether you report online or by phone, you will be contacted by a care coordinator who will follow up with you to ensure you are able to access resources and support, including legal, financial, mental health, and mediation services.

California vs Hate is not run by the police. Your report will not be shared with law enforcement without your consent. We will only connect you with law enforcement if you request it. Our team can share information about how to report to police or local prosecutors if needed.

California vs Hate will also identify civil legal options that don’t involve the criminal legal system, both through the Civil Rights Department and other agencies.

You do not need to disclose your immigration status when you report with California vs Hate. Hotline services are provided for free, regardless of immigration status.

All reports are confidential and can be made anonymously. Whether or not you report anonymously, your identity will not be disclosed without your consent unless required by law.