New York State’s Hate and Bias Prevention Unit A Program of the New York State Division of Human Rights
The New York State Division of Human Rights is responsible for handling discrimination reports submitted by New Yorkers, investigating those allegations, and taking appropriate action. Alongside the formal complaint process, the Division also offers a reporting structure and community support network for acts of hate and bias experienced by New Yorkers.
There is a difference between discrimination and acts of hate and bias. Acts of discrimination involve treating people unfairly because of a protected characteristic, like someone’s race or sex—for example, an employer who refuses to hire or promote people of a particular racial or ethnic background, even when they are qualified. The Division of Human Rights has the authority to investigate claims of discrimination under the New York State Human Rights Law and can order violators of the law to provide remedies.
Acts of hate and bias refer to a broad category of behavior that may or may not violate the Human Rights Law or criminal law. This can range from using derogatory language and slurs to engaging in property damage or even violence. The Division of Human Rights does not always have authority to investigate these types of cases, but our Hate and Bias Prevention Unit is always here to help individuals and communities who have been impacted.
How the Hate and Bias Prevention Unit Works
Our Hate and Bias Prevention Unit offers community support, educational materials, and connections to additional resources. Anyone who witnesses or experiences hate or bias in New York State—even if they are not sure if the situation warrants hate and bias intervention—is encouraged to report it to the Hate and Bias Prevention Unit by calling: (844) 662-4283 or you can navigate to our Hate and Bias Incident Form. Reporting hate and bias to the Division is safe, simple, and can be anonymous.
The Hate and Bias Prevention Unit’s mission is focused around three key initiatives: a statewide network of Regional Hate and Bias Prevention Councils, a Response Team for hate and bias prevention, and initiatives for young leaders to get involved in combatting hate and bias.
Hate and Bias Prevention Work
Key Initiatives
Regional Councils
The Unit coordinates 10 Regional Hate & Bias Prevention Councils comprised of community leaders from every corner of the state. The Councils provide a place for community members to share concerns, organize educational programming, discuss policy proposals, host hate and bias prevention and community healing events, provide trainings in conflict resolution, and more.
Response Team
The Unit’s Response Team offers support to people and communities impacted by a bias or hate incident. The Response Team can assist in community healing and support through conflict resolution meetings, restorative justice practices, public education initiatives, and by helping people file formal complaints and access important state resources.
Youth Initiatives
The Unit’s Youth Initiatives team engages young people in programs, trainings, and workshops that will develop their knowledge, skills and attitudes to be catalysts for positive change in their communities. HBPU partners with schools and youth-based organizations across the state, centering youth voices and experiences about hate and bias.