Across the nation, hate crimes are on the rise against many particular groups. It is very unfortunate and potentially dangerous to all of us. We cannot count on legislation and anti-hate protests to end attacks against us. Therefore, we must take precautions to protect ourselves and our brothers and sisters in our local communities.
There is a misconception that hate crimes don’t happen in our local communities or anywhere else in our immediate areas. The truth is - they do. While, in many communities, there have been no incidents resulting in severe or permanent injury or death, we must do what we can to keep those things from happening to us. Our first defense against hate crimes directed at us is to take steps to enhance our own safety.
Here is a list of suggested steps you can take to avoid being the victim of a violent crime:
I. Report all verbal threats and harassment to the proper authorities. If at work, notify a supervisor. If at school, tell a teacher or a principal. The local police should also be informed of threats and harassment.
II. Report acts of vandalism. Those that are distinctly biased (i.e. swastikas or inflammatory statements such as “Die Fag!”) must be reported.
III. Avoid going out alone whenever possible. Groups of people are less likely to be assaulted than one person out alone. If you do go out, let someone know where you will be. Arrange to call that person by a certain time.
IV. Tell friends and other people if you are the victim of verbal attacks or vandalism or a physical attack. When you report the abuse or vandalism, have someone with you as a witness to the report.
V. Avoid walking alone in strange areas.
VI. When walking, stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. If you must enter a darkened area, be alert and don’t waste time.
VII. If you are in a vehicle in an unfamiliar area, keep your doors locked. Park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
VIII. If you know verbal abuse, vandalism, and/or physical attacks have occurred in a particular area, try to avoid that area. If you can’t, keep a low profile.
IX. ABOVE ALL - USE COMMON SENSE!
It is unfortunate that we have to think about such protective measures. Although we encourage people to take pride in who and what they are, we must still remember that there are those out there who are fully capable of violence against gays and lesbians. And, while these protective steps can be seen as intimidation, we should do whatever we can to protect ourselves.
