Gov. Hochul Announces Application Period for round of Grants- Secure Communities Against Hate crimes

October 21, 2021

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the opening of the application period for $25 million in grants to strengthen safety and security measures at facilities of nonprofit organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their ideology, beliefs, or missions. The funding is being administered through the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes Program at the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services and allows for the purchase of additional security needs.

"As New Yorkers, there is nothing we are more proud of than our diversity," said Governor Kathy Hochul. "Our state has long been a refuge for those who have been persecuted for how they worship, who they love, or where they come from. Despite that commitment to equality and inclusivity, there will always be those who seek to divide us. We will never let these bad actors tear us apart and this funding is critical to ensuring they don't."

As defined by state law, hate crimes are those perpetrated against individuals, groups of individuals or property because of a perception or belief about race, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, religion or other characteristics. These crimes adversely affect entire communities, not just the intended targets. New York State tracks these incidents separately from other crimes so trends can be monitored and steps can be taken proactively in their prevention.

New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, "Hate has no place in New York, and the Assembly Majority is committed to ensuring that our state is inclusive and welcoming for all. This funding will give organizations the resources they need to upgrade their security against those that seek to bring hate and fear into our communities. We will continue to work to call out and stand up against hate and to ensure that every New Yorker - regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity - feels safe in their community."

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services First Deputy Commissioner Mark E. White said, "Public safety and equality go hand-in-hand. We've seen time and again the consequences of intolerance, discrimination and hatred, and the toll they take both financially and in the form of trauma inflicted on individuals, their loves ones, communities and even bystanders. We thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to preventing these vicious attacks by providing funds to deter hate crimes before they take place."

President and Founder of National Action Network Rev. Al Sharpton said, "The legacy of hatred and racism in our country is too often one of violence. That violence cannot be ignored or swept under the rug and I commend the Hochul administration for recognizing the unique needs of the African American community in providing this funding for the safety and security of our community organizations.

President Marc Morial of the National Urban League said, "It's no secret that African Americans regularly are targeted for racially-motivated violence and discrimination. It is a lived experience seen all too often in far too many of our communities. The non-profits and organizations established to serve our communities are no different, and I appreciate Governor Hochul's demonstrated commitment to their protection."

To read more about this story, you can visit Governor Kathy Hochul Announces Opening of Application Period for next round of Grants to Secure Communities Against Hate Crimes.

New York Pressroom

October 21, 2021