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New York State is providing more than $51 million in grants to help boost safety and security for organizations that are at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their ideology, beliefs or mission.
This funding is the highest amount ever awarded by the state in the fight against hate crimes, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Tuesday. Hochul also announced that she had signed legislation designed to strengthen investigation and reporting requirements for hate crimes on college campuses.
“Hate has absolutely no place in our state, and we will continue to do whatever it takes to make sure every New Yorker is safe from baseless violence that stems from prejudice,” Hochul said Tuesday at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City, in front of elected officials, community leaders and advocates.
“This is a historic investment in the communities that need our help the most, and with these funds, New York’s most at-risk organizations will be able to invest in the security measures they need to stay safe,” she added. “In the face of disgusting vitriol and violence, I want to be clear: we are not afraid. If you attack one of us, you attack us all — and no one wins a fight against New Yorkers.”
Nationally, reported hate crime incidents increased 11.6%, from 8,210 in 2020 to 9,065 in 2021, the U.S. Justice Department reported about its latest figures in March.
Now, 497 organizations across the state have been awarded $51.6 million for 1,081 projects to protect against hate crimes. And for the first time, that funding includes more than $8.8 million going toward 187 cybersecurity projects.
Successful grant applicants are being notified of their awards beginning Tuesday.
New York’s Office of Victim Services funds more than 200 programs across the state that provide services, support and assistance to victims of hate crimes and other crimes. The agency also can provide eligible individuals with financial assistance for expenses resulting from being the victim of hate or other crimes. Visit www.ovs.ny.gov/connect to locate a program.
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