Anti-GLBT hate crimes are those in which victims are chosen because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. That's right, perception IS everything when it comes to hate crime! Hate crimes are also committed based on religion, disability, race, ethnicity and national origin. (duh, like you didn't know that)

Hate crimes may include property crimes (like robbery), threats, intimidation or actual acts of physical violence. Hate crimes are unique because they send messages to entire groups - as well as to their families and other supporters - that they are unwelcome and unsafe in particular communities. The sad part is, it is often not indicative of the entire community, but a small subset.

TAKE NOTE: Most anti-GLBT hate crimes are committed by otherwise law-abiding young people who often believe that they have societal permission to engage in anti-gay violence.

What should I do if I become the victim of a Hate Crime?

Victims should immediately report any and all such activities of crimes to their local police department for investigation and prosecution. Hate crimes are harsh, emotional, destructive and sometimes violent crimes. The only way to stop hate crimes is to report them.

If it happened to you, it has probably happened to others in your community. The police work closely with business groups, neighborhood associations and citizen organizations such as the Arizona Hate Crimes Advisory Board Inc. These crimes create a great deal of fear and distrust. If you fail to report these crimes you add to the problem (now is no time to shut up, Mary!)

Phoenix, Arizona Police Policies on Hate Crime

What type of information will the police need?

* Calmly explain what crime occurred.
* Did this just happen?
* At what location did it occur?
* Can you describe the person who committed the crime?
* Was a vehicle involved?
* Did others witness the crime?
* Why do you think this occurred to you? (if you don't know it's OK, don't make up a reason)
* Did anyone have a weapon?
* Do you want to prosecute?
* Does anyone need medical help?

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