Mayor Elorza Announces City Hate Crime Hotline Initiative for Reporting and Documentation of Hate-Related Incidents

PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Jorge O. Elorza today joined Rabbi Barry Dolinger of
Congregation Beth Sholom, Director of Public Policy for the Institute for the Study
& Practice of Nonviolence, Jordan Seaberry, Providence Police Major Oscar Perez, and
community members to announce the City’s Hate Crime Hotline.

The 1-877-3HCRIME (1-877-342-7163) phone line that will allow individuals to report
hate crimes citywide and gain access to valuable resources and support networks.
This hotline is part of Mayor Elorza’s One Providence initiative aimed at protecting
and serving every resident of the city regardless of race, ethnicity, national
origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, religion, or
disability.
«With reports that hate crimes are on the rise, this hotline will ensure that
residents have the outlet and resources to report a crime and feel safe,» said Mayor
Elorza. «We will not tolerate hate crimes of any kind in our city and if anyone
experiences or witnesses one, please know that support is just a call away.»

According to the Southern Poverty Law Center in the days following the election,
there were almost 900 reports of harassment and intimidation from across the nation.
Additionally, the Bureau of Justice Statistics estimates that two-thirds of hate
crimes go unreported to the police.

«The Institute for the Study & Practice of Nonviolence proudly stands alongside
Mayor Elorza today, reaffirming our dedication to ending all forms of violence,»
added Jordan Seaberry. «Providence will not be a place that tolerates the hateful
violence that is rewarded by seeing entire groups, ethnicities, races, or religions
living in fear.»

Residents who have experienced bias, violence or discrimination are encouraged to
call 1-877-3HCRIME, which is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. The hotline
is a direct connection to emergency management support. In the event of an
emergency, the police will respond. Depending on the needs, requests, and comfort of
the constituent, and the specific issues being addressed, the police and/or call
screener may also involve a liaison or additional organization to help support and
advocate for them.

The Mayor’s office will release reports of the data compiled from the hotline
semi-annually, which will then be utilized to guide recommendations for police
policies and procedures. For more information on the hotline and resources available
to residents, visit the Mayor’s Center for City Services
website.>