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Feds Crack Down on Hate Crimes in Houses of Worship
NEWARK, NJ – The Justice Department has announced the launch of a new interagency initiative designed to combat hate crimes and promote religious freedom in communities nationwide.
The initiative, dubbed ‘Combating Religious Discrimination Today,’ aims to challenge hate crimes and unlawful barriers that interfere with the construction of places of worship. The program will host a series of community roundtables across the country, focusing on protecting people and places of worship from hate crimes.
The inaugural roundtable is taking place in Newark, New Jersey, and will examine bullying and harassment in schools based on students’ actual or perceived religion. ‘Hate-motivated violence, harassment and discrimination violate America’s laws and threaten our founding vision of a free and tolerant society that welcomes people from every creed and walk of life,’ said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Civil Rights Division.
The new initiative is a collaborative effort between the Justice Department, the Departments of Education, Homeland Security, and Labor, as well as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Agency officials will facilitate the roundtable discussions to help identify key priorities and lead robust dialogue with community members and civil rights advocates.
According to officials, the program will also focus on preventing and prosecuting hate crimes targeting individuals and houses of worship, as well as addressing unlawful barriers that interfere with the construction of places of worship. ‘We are eager to continue partnering with our federal colleagues to address bias and discrimination in our nation’s schools,’ said Catherine E. Lhamon, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the Department of Education.
The program’s success will be measured by the number of hate crimes prevented, the number of communities engaged, and the number of individuals educated on the importance of religious freedom. ‘Ensuring the protection of uniquely American rights and liberties is a fundamental part of DHS’s mission to build safe and resilient communities,’ said Officer Megan H. Mack of the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties.
The initiative is a step in the right direction for communities nationwide, where hate crimes have been on the rise. ‘A diverse and inclusive workplace reflects the strength and richness of America and its history,’ said Director Patricia Shiu of the DOL Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs. ‘Built by immigrants from every corner of the world, our nation’s greatness must not be diminished by unlawful religious discrimination.’
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division is leading the initiative, which will engage communities across the country and provide a platform for meaningful dialogue on the issue of hate crimes.
Key Facts
- State: Federal
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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