(Debra Mefta, with members of the public, expressing how they feel about Hate Crime)
I want to live in a world where everyone is treated equally, where everyone has food, clothing and shelter, and where everyone is free to move to wherever they want. With Brexit there is more division, less sharing, more selfishness, less love and sadly* more hate crime!
Do you know what a ‘hate crime’ is? Would you know where to report it?
You may argue ‘it doesn’t happen to me, so I don’t need to know’, but what if it was a family member, a friend or even a member of the public that is the target of verbal – called a ‘paki’, ‘faggot’, ‘cabbage,’ ‘white honkey’ – or physical abuse – smacked, knifed or even have their property damaged – Would you know what to do?
Could you advise them?
The easy route is violence: Yes, stand up to them, but in some cases this just makes the problem worse. The most affective way to stop hate crimes at the root is by reporting the incident.
I’ve been lucky enough to work on a project with Redditch Council (Sarah McIntosh and Ken Hazeldene), in the Worcester, Bromsgrove, Kidderminister and South Birmingham areas, highlighting hate crime that exists.
1)What is a ‘hate crime’?
If verbal or physical abuse is directed to a person or their property because of their
- disability
- race or ethnicity
- religion or beliefs
- sexuality or gender identity
that constitutes as a hate crime.
2)Why should you report it?
Sajid Javid MP, of Bromsgrove, gives his explanation as to why you should report hate crime, how important it is to educate people about it and why it should not be ignored. (Filmed & interviewed by V Korpal)
3)Where should I report it?
If you are in danger or a crime is being committed, immediately dial 999 for the police, otherwise dial 101 for non-emergencies. You can also report it at the neighbourhood office and CAB. For those who are computer savvy, you can report it online at:
http://www.report-it.org.uk/home
Jeneatte Lane – talks about where to report it (Filmed by V Korpal)
4)Make a pledge
Tracey Onslow, Deputy Crime & Police Commissioner for West Mercia, explains why it’s important for the community to come out to help fight this terrible crime, which in most cases is targeted to the vulnerable. (Filmed & interviewed by V Korpal)
Hate crime exists and has been on the increase. Let’s report it and stand up for those who are vulnerable too. This way maybe we can start restoring the love.
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Vimal Korpal is a presenter/actor working in TV, theatre, radio and corporate role play work – contact directly or via agent Red Talent Management.
Vimal Korpal
