Statement From State Senator Gustavo Rivera on Recent Uptick of Hate-Related Crimes Across the Country

"I'm profoundly disturbed by the recent uptick in hate related crimes all across our country in the aftermath of this year's presidential election. Violence of any kind against an individual or a group due to their race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability or sexual orientation will not be tolerated and much less normalized, especially in our City and State. New York remains a symbol of hope for countless individuals from around the world who seek a better life for themselves and their families. 

I want to commend Governor Andrew Cuomo's leadership in fighting back this malaise by launching a toll-free hotline to report incidents of bias and discrimination across the state. New Yorkers who wish to report an incident of this kind can call the state Division of Human Rights at (888) 392-3644 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

I also vigorously applaud our City's five district attorneys for joining forces in not only denouncing intolerance, but also for their willingness to prosecute crimes motivated by hate. 

Now, more than ever, it is our responsibility to continue working together to ensure that our fellow Americans are protected. My office will always be a resource that you can count on."