Mission Statement

"The network's mission is to reach out, report, respond, repair, and rebuild in an effort to prevent and take action against Hate in our community"

Background

For a number of years, the Santa Clara County Human Relations Commission and the Office of Human Relations had been working on hate issues and formed a Hate Issues Task Force. On January 27th, 1999, with the support of the Board of Supervisors, more than forty culturally diverse community-based organizations joined together. They sponsored a conference entitled "Visualize a Hate-Free Community" to address hate related issues in our county.

As a follow-up to the conference, the Santa Clara County Network for a Hate-Free Community was established in April of 2000. It would provide a community response to hate crimes and hate incidents in Santa Clara County and the larger society. The Network is composed of members who represent culturally diverse community-based organizations, law enforcement, social services, faith groups, education, and concerned community members.

By sharing the expertise and experiences of many people and organizations committed to building peace, we can forge a workable strategy to create a hate-free community in Santa Clara County. We invite all of you to join in this cause.

Network Goals

• Develop and implement an annual community action plan to prevent the growth of hate crime and hate incidents in Santa Clara County.
• Build public awareness and education regarding hate Issues.
• Develop a strong community response network in our community.
• Provide aid to the victims of hate crimes/incidents.
• Track and respond to legislation and policies which impact inter-group relations.
• Recommend appropriate legislation on Hate Crimes.