Report Hate!

Hate is at an all-time high in Chicago, but it still remains chronically underreported. Local residents now have a new tool for reporting hate, thanks to innovative legislation passed by 50th Ward Alderman Debra Silverstein. 

 

Anyone who experiences hate or discrimination can now report it through 311, the CHI311 mobile app, or online at 311.chicago.gov. Emergency situations should continue to be reported to 911, but any situation that does not need a police officer response can now be reported by creating a new “Hate Incident” service request.

 

By utilizing the 311 system, victims can report hate incidents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in whatever language they speak. They can request follow-up from law enforcement or from the civilian Commission on Human Relations.

 

Alderman Silverstein’s CHI vs Hate legislation was the first major update of Chicago’s hate crimes ordinance in more than 30 years. It makes it easier to report hate and ask for help. It also allows Chicago residents to report hate incidents for the first time ever. These non-criminal acts are often precursors to more serious hate crimes. By tracking them, the City can intervene and mediate community tensions before things escalate.