WSSN Stories

By Lou K Coleman

And what do you do? You turn your head as if nothing is happening around you. Woe unto you!  Jesus and the apostles exhorted us to actively “watch!” [Matthew 24:3; Mark 13:32-37]. The command to “watch” includes being alert to newsworthy events happening in the world we live in. When we see major shifts in the political climate and see nations jockeying for position and preparing for war, we must take note! Likewise, we should be alert to potential biological and environmental disasters that we are told will happen in the end-times. We must be aware of time and events so that we can be ready for what is coming. [Revelations 22:20]. Understand all that Christ and the apostles meant and the wide-ranging implications, because your survival and salvation depend on that understanding and your action.

“Hear this, O foolish and senseless people, who have eyes but do not see, who have ears but do not hear. [Jeremiah 5:21]. The Luciferians tell you what they’re going to do ahead of time. They have a code of ethics, and one of the facets of their code of ethics is they must tell the world everything they are going to do before they do it. Certainly, we are not ignorant that evil, the workings of Satan, are all around us. Staying aware of the powerful behind-the-scenes role of Satan and his demons enables us to understand the atrocious evil and madness of this world. So, what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” [Mark 13:35-37]. “Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” [1 Peter 5:8].

In Revelation 13 it tells us that the four beasts of [Daniel 7] become one beast, the united government of the Antichrist [The New World Order]. What’s happening in the world today? The Beast Rising from the Earth: [Revelation 13:11-18]. Watch and pray that you may escape all that is about to happen, that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” [Luke 21:36].

What I say to you, I say to all: Watch!

NEW YORK, NY— EBONY Magazine will return to print for a Fall issue that is slated to hit newsstands on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.  In partnership with entertainment company Mass Appeal, the limited-edition print issue celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop with five unique cover stories highlighting Hip Hop legends: 50 Cent, Lil’ Kim, Busta Rhymes, Rick Ross, and Swizz Beatz.  To punctuate Hip Hop’s interdisciplinary reach, both brands have collaborated to create and house original Hip Hop 50 content. In sponsorship with Google Pixel, EBONY.com serves as a digital hub for always-on multimedia content exploring the legacy of Hip Hop across art, music, activism, fashion, business, and more.  Readers can access the content online and the print issue will be available nationwide and in select international markets.

“For the past 50 years Hip Hop has been a cornerstone in our community and an undeniable world force,” says EBONY EVP of Brand and Marketing Ashlee Glenn. “We hand-picked our Fall cover stars because they represent the excellence of the genre.  Their style and business acumen are as influential to our culture as their musical prowess, and we could not miss this opportunity to give our loyal readers what they have long been asking for – a physical copy of our legendary print magazine.”

EBONY Magazine has been a leader in media because of the brand’s history of producing buzz-worthy news stories, provocative covers, and highlighting the best of Black culture.  EBONY’s coveted Fall issue will showcase the far-reaching impact of Hip Hop with features penned by leading journalists that have played an integral role in chronicling its evolution, including trailblazer Emil Wilbekin, award-winning writer Kevin Powell, and historian Elliott Wilson. Shot on various locations in New York, Los Angeles and Miami, the commemorative edition features covers by legendary photographers Keith Major and Shamaal Bloodman.

“EBONY Magazine has been a pioneer publication documenting Black life in America since its inception. EBONY has photographed and profiled some of the most iconic figures in Hip Hop, those who have influenced culture and shaped society. It is a pleasure to partner with EBONY to continue documenting the moments that made history and those which undoubtedly will,” adds Mass Appeal SVP of Partnerships & Content Acquisition Jenya Meggs.

Of particular excitement is Mass Appeal’s “Hip Hop 50 List,” to be featured on EBONY.com. The curated feature will celebrate the artists, creators, and industry trailblazers who have made an indelible mark in Hip Hop and beyond.

Garrison is the first Black woman to serve as a full committee staff director in at least five years

WASHINGTON—- The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies applauds Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, for promoting Eyang Garrison to the role of majority staff director.

Garrison is the first Black full committee staff director since the Oct. 2021 departure of David Strickland, who served as staff director of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. There are a total of 37 full committee staff director positions in the Senate.

Prior to the new role, Garrison served on the committee as deputy staff director since March. She also served as chief of staff to former Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewel Bronaugh and deputy chief of staff and legislative director to then-Congresswoman Marcia Fudge (D-OH). She is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma.

“It’s exciting to see Ms. Garrison take on such an important role in the Senate, especially considering that she will be the first Black woman to serve as a Senate full committee staff director in at least five years,” said Joint Center Interim President and Vice President, Policy Jessica Fulton.

“With a proven track record that includes leadership roles in the U.S. Department of Agriculture and in Congress, Ms. Garrison brings in-depth knowledge and policy expertise during a pivotal moment in U.S. agricultural policy, which affects our communities through food, farms, and nutrition. We commend Senator Debbie Stabenow for her commitment to promoting top staff diversity and for recognizing Ms. Garrison’s invaluable expertise, leading to her well-deserved appointment. We hope other senators follow her lead and recruit talented people of color for top staff positions, ensuring that congressional top staff reflects the diversity of America.”

ATLANTA, GA—- Awakened Lounge, a visionary production company, is thrilled to announce its latest cinematic masterpiece, “Jubilee Amor”. This enchanting romantic comedy is set to captivate audiences and leave an everlasting impression with its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters.

Written and directed by the talented Naomi K. Bonman, “Jubilee Amor” takes us on a journey of love, self-discovery, and overcoming obstacles. Set in the vibrant City of Atlanta, the film follows the story of a former playboy and a strong independent woman navigating jealousy, tragedy, and the quest for true love. It’s a beautifully crafted narrative that explores the complexities of relationships while delivering moments of laughter and inspiration.

Under the visionary leadership of Awakened Lounge, the production team for “Jubilee Amor” includes Lillie Mae Jones as the Casting Director and Producer, Quinton Cammick as the Assistant Director, Marie France Louis as the Associate Producer and Gaffer, and Blaire Hastings as the Production Assistant, among other talented individuals who have poured their hearts and souls into making this film a reality.

“Jubilee Amor” is more than just a film; it’s a movement. Awakened Lounge is committed to empowering emerging artists and promoting diverse storytelling. The storylines and characters in “Jubilee Amor” reflect the richness of Atlanta’s black filmmakers and actors, bringing their unique perspectives to the forefront.

However, creating a high-quality film like “Jubilee Amor” requires not only passion and creativity but also financial resources. Awakened Lounge invites individuals who share their vision and believe in the power of independent filmmaking to contribute to the success of the project. By donating to support the production of “Jubilee Amor,” you can play a pivotal role in bringing this enchanting story to life.

To make a donation and support the film, please visit theawakenedlounge.com/jubilee-amor. Every donation, regardless of the amount, will make a significant difference in realizing the artistic vision of “Jubilee Amor.” As a token of appreciation, the names of generous donors will be prominently featured in the film’s credits.

Awakened Lounge is a company passionate about curating luxury and holistic travel experiences for creatives of color. To learn more about the company and its mission, please visit their About Us page at theawakenedlounge.com/about-us.

Join Awakened Lounge on this cinematic journey of love, laughter, and self-discovery. By supporting “Jubilee Amor,” you are not only contributing to the growth of independent filmmaking but also uplifting underrepresented voices and celebrating the magic of storytelling.

For many states, September represents International Underground Railroad Month. The State of Maryland initiated this commemoration in 2019. During this month, we hope to elevate and share Underground Railroad histories with our communities and better understand how the actions of freedom seekers and their allies shaped the world we live in today.

September represents International Underground Railroad Month because it was the month that two of the most well-known freedom seekers and Underground Railroad operatives, Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman, escaped from slavery.

There was no singular path to freedom. Freedom seekers may have chosen to travel within the United States, but some travelled internationally to secure their freedom: to the Caribbean, Mexico, England, Canada, etc. The journeys of freedom seekers themselves is part of what connects nations across the world to the history of the Underground Railroad.

Wherever and whenever slavery existed, there were efforts to escape. We know free Black communities, and in some cases Indigenous tribes, came together to aid freedom seekers in their fight for freedom: not just Quakers and wealthy white abolitionists. We know that freedom seekers who made the decision to escape traveled not just North to Canada: but South to locations like Spanish Florida, the Caribbean and Mexico to reclaim their freedom. All these puzzle pieces can help us understand the Underground Railroad as one of the first American Civil Rights movements.

In September 2019, the State of Maryland initiated the commemoration of September as International Underground Railroad Month and invited other states to join them in the future.  In 2020, Maryland Office of Tourism and the Michigan Freedom Trails Commission reached out to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom to collaborate with sites, facilities, and programs with documented connections to the Underground Railroad.  The Network to Freedom’s role is to bring communities together and provide them with an opportunity to engage with these stories in a new way.

The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program defines the Underground Railroad as “resistance to slavery through escape and flight.” The Underground Railroad would not exist were it not for the bravery of freedom seekers who self-liberated: and thus, it is imperative that discussion of the Underground Railroad is centered on the experiences of the freedom seekers themselves. Everyone who escaped slavery has a unique story, and though it is possible to draw trends from the hundreds of individuals who escaped, we must understand that there is no such thing as a “routine” or “typical” escape story. By examining the Underground Railroad in this way, we can more thoroughly understand the obstacles freedom seekers faced, the motivations of allies and enemies, and the complexity and nuance of one of the first Civil Rights movements in the United States.

Digital versions of proclamations will be available in the coming days.

Events are being held all over the country and internationally to commemorate International Underground Railroad Month. The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Organization Calendar Page has information relative to Network to Freedom Members that are hosting events for International Underground Railroad Month, as does our International Underground Railroad Month landing page.

By Lou K. Coleman

Who lead the world in every abomination known to man. “Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: who has forsaken the Lord, who has provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, who has gone away backward.” [Isaiah 1:4]. Woe unto you! Professing to be wise, became fools, changing the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things. Changed the truth of God into a lie, worshipping and serving the creature more than the Creator.

America, being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, deceit, whispers, backbiters, despiteful, proud, boasters, disobedient, covenant breakers, implacable, unmerciful, haters of God: Who knowing the judgment of God, that what they commit is worthy of death… [Romans chapter 1]. Woe to America! Cunningly guided the world in spiritual fornication. “For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies” [Revelation 18:3-5]. I tell you, you will be a curse and an object of horror, a curse, and an object of reproach; you will never see this place again. [Jeremiah 42:18]. For the judgment of God for you have reached the point of no return. Your destruction will be like an overwhelming flood, uniquely vast and deep. Overpowering. Unescapable. Unstoppable, says Almighty God.

Come near, you nations, to hear; and listen, you peoples! Let the earth and all it contains hear, and the world and all that springs from it. For the Lord’s anger is against all the nations, and His wrath against all their armies. He has utterly destroyed them; He has turned them over to slaughter. So, their slain will be thrown out, and their corpses will give off their stench, and the mountains will be drenched with their blood. And all the heavenly lights will wear away, and the sky will be rolled up like a scroll; For My sword has drunk its fill in heaven; and it shall descend for judgment upon [America] and upon the people whom I have designated for destruction… Woe to America! Its streams will be turned into pitch, and its loose earth into brimstone, and its land will become burning pitch. It will not be extinguished night or day; Its smoke will go up forever. From generation to generation, it will be desolate; none will pass through it forever and ever. [Isaiah 34:1-10].

At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to destroy it; If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them. [Jeremiah 18:7-8].

For, I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. [Acts 20:27].

NEW YORK, NY— GIRLS PREP BRONX II ELEMENTARY was the epicenter of a heartwarming philanthropic initiative led by two-time New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Frederick Joseph. Reflecting his ongoing commitment to communities and young people, Joseph generously donated $20,000 worth of essential back-to-school supplies and books to children at the school.

The generous contribution included copies of his recent work, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – The Courage to Dream,” Nike book bags, school supplies, notebooks, and stress-relief balls. Beyond the tangible items, Joseph also ensured that attendees were well-fed, providing food for the event. Recognizing the financial challenges that some families face, he went a step further by distributing $50 gift cards to parents in attendance.

“I’m from these neighborhoods in New York, and these kids remind me of myself,” Joseph shared. “I want to help provide for them some of the same things I wish people provided for me when I was that age.”

About Frederick Joseph:

Frederick’s literary prowess is evident with New York Times bestsellers like “The Black Friend” (2020) and “Patriarchy Blues” (2022) under his belt. He’s been a beacon in the literary world, gaining accolades such as the International Literacy Association’s 2021 Children’s & Young Adults’ Book Award and making the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2019. His activism, philanthropy, and poetic gifts have led to numerous honors, including the 2023 Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Vanguard Award.

Notably, Frederick’s community-driven endeavors have amassed over $50 million to support marginalized communities. His initiatives, like the #RentRelief campaign during the height of the pandemic and the #BlackPantherChallenge, resonate globally, bringing hope and change.

Eager readers can anticipate Frederick’s upcoming works, including his debut poetry collection “We Alive, Beloved,” novel “This Thing of Ours,” and the non-fiction essay anthology “Color Me Grateful.” Visit FrederickJoseph.com or @FredTJoseph to learn more.

About Girls Prep Bronx II Elementary School:

Girls Prep Bronx II Elementary School is a part of the award-winning, Public Prep network of charter schools across Manhattan and the Bronx and the nation’s first non-profit tuition-free charter school network that develops exceptional Pre-K, and single-gender elementary and middle public schools. We envision a world where every scholar realizes their greatness inside and outside of school, and where classrooms are beacons of the community, fostering courageous learners, critical thinkers, and resilient leaders with strong personal agency.

About Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – The Courage to Dream:

Set in the world of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever from Marvel Studios, The Courage to Dream is an inspiring picture book about a young Wakandan finding her destiny, from two New York Times best-selling creators. The Courage to Dream tells the story of Assata, a young Wakandan who hopes to become one of the Dora Milaje, the warriors who protect Wakanda. But because of Assata’s disability, she lets go of her dream. Assata’s light shows through all the same, introducing her to surprising friends: the princess Shuri, the warrior Okoye, and the powerful M’Baku. But only Assata can give herself what she’s missing: the courage to dream.

By Dr. Melissa Franklin | Special to California Black Media Partners

Black mothers are more likely to die due to complications from pregnancy and childbirth than pregnant women of all other races. This is a shameful injustice plaguing the Black community, one that is over 400 years in the making.

Black women are 1.6 times more likely to experience more maternal mental health conditions, including prenatal and postpartum anxiety and depression, than women of other races, according to the American Hospital Association Institute for Diversity and Health Equity,

These injustices are killing Black women who are well-resourced and educated like Olympian Tori Bowie, as well as those enduring economic hardship. It is also harming their babies. And although this crisis has attracted national attention, it remains unaddressed.

For Black women, like me, who have experienced premature childbirth, the trauma and guilt of not being able to bring our babies full term can be long-lasting. Those psychological scars exist along with the other physical and mental threats to our health and wellbeing.

Both of my children were born three months early, despite my best efforts. I had a steady job, decent income, post-graduate education, a good bill of health and a stable relationship. Yet, my health and life were threatened in both of their births. One would think that such an experience would place me in a unique category. However, as a Black woman, it does not.

In Los Angeles County, Black women die at three to four times the rate of other races due to pregnancy-related complications, and Black babies die at two to three times the rate of any other race before their first birthday. Black babies are born premature at greater rates than any other ethnic group, which can lead to long-term health and developmental challenges. The Black community is also shouldering a disproportionate amount of the mental burden of tragedy and loss when it comes to pregnancy and childbirth.

To solve this problem, we must acknowledge three truths:

1. The problem is not with Black people.
2. It’s the system that is failing Black people.
3. This problem is solvable, and Black people deserve to have joyous and healthy births.

The data coupled with our lived experiences and history as Black people tells us something is amiss. College educated Black women experience worse birth outcomes (i.e., death, premature birth, health complications for mother and child) than White women with high school diplomas. Black women who are non-smokers have worse birth outcomes than White women who smoke. The root problem is also not “teen pregnancy.”

Black teens have better birth outcomes than older Black individuals.

The root causes of the problem are complex. In short, stress kills.

The stress of generations of racial harm compounded by ongoing, exposure to racist treatment, prejudice and oppression, can be deadly. This stress is especially deadly when it is exacerbated by systems of care that disrespect and withhold quality care from Black people. The social contexts that imperil Black individuals to a greater extent than other races, such as homelessness, criminal justice injustice, education system injustice, and child welfare system injustice create a perfect storm for these root causes to grow.

There is hope for change. There are a number of initiatives underway to address the racism and stress that are at the root of the problem. These initiatives range from legislation such as the Federal Momnibus Act, California Senate Bill (SB) 65 (California Momnibus Act) and California SB 464 (Dignity in Pregnancy Act) to Statewide Initiatives such as the Perinatal Equity Initiative. In Los Angeles County, the Department of Public Health’s African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Initiative (AAIMM) brings together public agencies, community-based organizations, and advocates to raise awareness and transform how systems treat Black people.

But what can a Black woman/person do if they are pregnant or want to become pregnant one day? We can reclaim justice and joy by activating a village to address the stress. Until racism, racial microaggressions and poor treatment by the health care system are resolved, mental health support from multiple places is a powerful tool we can access.

This means building a village to provide social and emotional support, and as well as advocacy during your childbirth journey. Available resources include:

Black Infant Health Program — prenatal groups that bring together Black pregnant folks in a group setting. They offer support, resources, and a coach to help you through your journey.

Doulas – birth partners who provide emotional and physical support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the early postpartum period.  Los Angeles County AAIMM Doula program provides doulas services by Black Doulas for Black families.

Group Prenatal – a small prenatal care group of pregnant women with similar due dates led by a clinician.

Home Visitation – assistance to expecting families on their journey through pregnancy and early parenting, delivered by a public health nurse or a parent coach.

Midwives, Maternity Homes and Birth Centers – Important sources of caring, quality support and advocacy.

While agencies and advocates are mounting efforts, we all have an important role. Even if you have no plans of becoming pregnant or parenting in the future, you can still make a difference when it comes to the mental health of childbearing moms.

If you know someone who is pregnant, connect them to a resource to assist them on their journeys. Be a friend and advocate. Take ACTION to show them they have a village –offer to cook/bring a meal, go with them to their appointments, provide a shoulder to lean on when they are exhausted.

While we work to make this world a less traumatizing place for Black people, we can also take steps to prevent the stress of that trauma from killing our mothers and our babies. We deserve to experience joy, abundance, and beautiful, healthy births. It is our birthright.

 About the Author

Dr. Melissa Franklin is the Director of maternal, Child and Adolescent Health at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

Related Video

Chelsea, an expectant mom, and Danica, her doula, discuss the delicate connection between mental health and maternal care.  Watch the video.

By Lou K Coleman

But it will not change the fact that what God says will come to fruition. You better know that you know! Jesus Himself talked of a future time so horrendous that no human lives would be spared, “unless those days were shortened.” [Matthew 24:22]. Daniel the prophet warned us of terrible end-time events that will affect the entire world. [Daniel 10:13-14]. Prophet Jeremiah said: “Why do I see every man with his hands on his loins like a woman in labor, and all faces turned pale? [Jeremiah 30:6-7]. Like I said, you can ignore God’s warnings if you want too, it will not change the fact that what God says will come to fruition.

Learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near: So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, [even] at the doors. [Mark 13: 28-30]. Because by the time the effects of the Fifth Trumpet—the First Woe—have ended, massive destruction will have taken place across the United States.

One Woe is past, and behold, there are two more Woes coming after this” [Revelation 9:12]. You can ignore God’s warning if you want to, but it will not change the fact that what God says will come to fruition. It is at this juncture that the world is warned of even far greater destruction that will follow, and that it is a matter of God’s judgment that this world has been given more than enough time and information to know and to understand what is about to come upon it in the form of a final war. Do not be foolish!

Understand that the first four Trumpets of the Seventh Seal are about the first major attack that will be made upon America. Because America has been the greatest single nation in the end-time, and the events of these four Trumpets are structured to cripple her world dominance, influence, and power. She is the first of all nations to be humbled by God because she has been given the most by Him and has been given the greatest opportunity to listen but has not. This humbling process that will be poured out upon America will be very strong against her. If you think the world was shocked by what happened to the United States on 9/11, that shock is nothing compared to the shock and fear that will grip the world once the events of these four Trumpets begin to take place, because the destruction from these events unfolds quickly, just as the events of 9/11 unfolded in one day. WWIII will begin as these events develop, and the greatest exchange of weapons in an all-out nuclear war will begin soon after this. Don’t take my word for Read the Book of Revelation chapter 8. It shows in very prophetic language the events that will lead to the fall of the United States as the first nation to be brought down. Don’t ignore the warnings of God, because soon and very soon, horrendous destruction is coming to America.

“For God has raised up many prophetic voices to call America to repentance and to warn that continued rebellion will lead to doom. America has refused to listen to these prophets. Instead, the nation has stiffened in its rebellion against God. The result is that America has passed the point of no return, the point of “dread release,” when God delivers a nation from judgment to destruction. And thus, the wrath of God is about to fall on this nation.”

Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For in one hour is thy judgment come. [Revelation 18:10; Revelation18:17-19].

First major ad blitz aims to build awareness of California vs Hate with a focus on hard-to-reach communities. Californians can visit CAvsHate.org or call 833-8-NO-HATE for resources and to report acts of hate

SACRAMENTO – The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) today announced it is launching a statewide multilingual ad campaign to increase awareness of the “California vs Hate” initiative, which includes a new hotline, website, and network that provides a safe, anonymous reporting option for victims and witnesses of hate and connects people with resources. This first major ad blitz aims to build awareness of the resources available to Californians impacted by hate statewide with a focus on traditionally hard-to-reach communities.

“In California, we’re committed to doing the necessary work of supporting all our communities,” said CRD Director Kevin Kish. “California vs Hate is not just about fighting bias and discrimination, but also about building coalitions and inclusivity. This new ad campaign is part of our ongoing efforts to support healing for all those targeted by hate and reach people who have historically been underserved. Whether its violence motivated by bias, racial slurs, name-calling, or discriminatory refusal of services, there is no place for hate in California. I urge every person in our state to make use of the hotline, get support, and share these resources. Together, we can fight hate.”

Officially unveiled earlier this year by Governor Newsom, “CA vs Hate” is in direct response to the rise in reported hate crimes in California, which, in recent years, reached their highest levels since 2001 — jumping more than 20% from 2021 to 2022. The new ad campaign is now underway and is set to last through the end of the year. It builds on the success of the program’s initial launch and outreach efforts, including a mini ad campaign launched during Pride Month. The new campaign includes radio, print, and digital across the state that will be available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Korean, Hmong, Tongan, and Mixtec across more than 30 different outlets. This new effort is in addition to the “CA vs Hate” online resource hub, which includes graphics for social media, flyers and posters, and customizable content in seven different languages. These resources are available to all members of the public and partner organizations. Throughout the year, “CA vs Hate” will continue to release targeted ads aimed at supporting all of California’s communities. For instance, “CA vs Hate” has also newly developed a targeted campaign geared towards youth as they head back to school, featuring shareable content that addresses how hate can manifest in school and empowers students to report.

Many hate crimes have historically gone unreported due to a variety of factors, including fear of retaliation, lack of culturally competent resources, concern around potential immigration consequences, and distrust of law enforcement. “CA vs Hate” aims to help address some of these issues by offering people targeted for hate — and their communities — additional resources to report acts of hate through a community-centered approach that does not require engagement with the criminal legal system. In addition, hotline services are confidential and provided for free, regardless of immigration status. Whether individuals report to “CA vs Hate” online or by phone, they are eligible to receive care coordination to ensure people impacted by hate are able to access resources and support, including legal, financial, mental health, and mediation services. “CA vs Hate” accepts all reports of hate acts and is not limited to only receiving reports that rise to the level of a criminal offense.

In the first month of the program’s official launch, “CA vs Hate” received 180 reports of hate acts across California. Nearly half of all individuals who reported an act of hate accepted care coordination services, including direct and ongoing support accessing legal aid or counseling.

“CA vs Hate” is a non-emergency, multilingual hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal. Reports can be made anonymously by calling (833) 866-4283, or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT or online at any time. Hate acts can be reported in 15 different languages through the online portal and in over 200 languages when calling the hotline. For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911. For more information on “CA vs Hate”, please visit CAvsHate.org.

The radio spot is available here. The print ads are available here. The digital ads will officially launch in the coming weeks and build on content available in the “CA vs Hate” resource hub available here. Graphics for the back-to-school mini campaign are available here.

CRD is the state agency charged with enforcing California’s civil rights laws. Formerly known as the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), the mission of CRD is to protect the people of California from unlawful discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and state-fund programs and activities, and from hate violence and human trafficking. For more information, visit calcivilrights.ca.gov.