AAPI Equity Alliance, as the Los Angeles County Regional Lead for California’s Stop the Hate program, coordinates with community organizations like The LGBTQ Center Long Beach to connect people affected by hate incidents to legal aid, mental health services, and other support. The article highlights how the program has helped families like the Garners and the Roques, who experienced harassment and violence but found assistance through the network.
Why it matters
The article sheds light on the broader issue of hate incidents that often fall outside the legal definition of hate crimes, leaving many survivors without recourse. AAPI Equity Alliance’s work in building a statewide coalition to prevent hate and support survivors demonstrates how community-based organizations can fill this gap and provide vital assistance.
The details
AAPI Equity Alliance partners with The LGBTQ Center Long Beach and other community groups under California’s Stop the Hate program, a statewide coalition aimed at preventing hate and supporting survivors. As the Los Angeles County Regional Lead, the AAPI Equity Alliance coordinates grantees, facilitates cross-community collaboration, and helps ensure services reach those most impacted. The program provides legal aid, mental health services, emergency assistance, and other support to survivors of hate incidents.
- In May 2022, Patricia Roque and her family were attacked after a late-night stop at a fast-food drive-thru in Southern California.
- In 2021, the California State Legislature passed the $165.5 million Asian Pacific Islander Equity Budget, with $110 million dedicated to victim services, education, and outreach.
- In August 2023, California invested an additional $40 million to expand the Stop the Hate program to serve a broader range of communities affected by hate and discrimination.