For the last few years, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the Interfaith Advisory Council for the Bellevue Police Department (BPD). It is one of seven advisory councils that meet with BPD to strengthen the relationship between the department and the community through trust, respect, and mutual understanding.
One of the initiatives that all of the advisory councils and BPD have been collaborating on is the Hate Crimes and Bias Incidents Hotline. We spent time learning about what Hate Crimes and Bias-related incidents are and offering feedback on what would be helpful (or not) for people who report these crimes. The hotline was created so that community members who may not feel comfortable initially contacting law enforcement to report a hate crime or bias-based incident would have a number to call for support and referral to services. The ultimate goal is that victims of these incidents will feel comfortable and supported in notifying law enforcement, and that their safety and confidentiality will be protected.
The hotline number is 1-855-225-1010 and the website is atg.wa.gov/REPORT-HATE This information is also available via the QR code below. We will also put this information onto a business card that you can carry with you and share as appropriate.
While this is currently available as a pilot project in Clark, King, and Spokane counties only, the attorney general anticipates making the hotline available statewide effective January 1, 2027.
Serving the community in this capacity reminds me, and should remind each of us, that we are part of something bigger. Most of us will not be the victim of a Hate Crime or Bias-related Incident, but it is the responsibility of each of us to care for one another. Knowing this information and sharing it is one tangible way we can do that.
With peace,
Pastor Lara, Saint Andrew's Lutheran Church