In the past few weeks, the Asian American community has been subjected to numerous instances of physical violence, harassment and racist remarks linked to coronavirus. There can be no tolerance for xenophobic attacks and slurs at any time, but especially not as we collectively work to confront a worldwide pandemic.  It is critically important that community members report hate crimes when they occur.

New York State Attorney general Letitia James has just launched a hotline to combat coronavirus inspired hate crimes and racist rhetoric.

“As we face an unprecedented and uncertain time for New York, the United States, and the world, we must reiterate the fact that this pandemic does not give anyone an excuse to be racist, xenophobic, or biased,” Attorney General James said. “No one should live in fear for their life because of who they are, what they look like, or where they come from. I encourage all victims of discriminatory actions stemming from this pandemic to contact my office. We will continue to work with local law enforcement to combat hate in all its insidious forms.”

To report hate crimes to the State Attorney General, call 800-771-7755 or send an email to: Civil.Rights@ag.ny.gov. 

Here are other places to report hate crimes: