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Toronto Crime Stoppers and the Toronto Police Service launch Hate Crime Awareness Campaign

Apr. 9, 2024, Toronto, Ont. – Toronto Crime Stoppers was joined today by Toronto Police Service Board Member Mr. Nick Migliore, Deputy Chief Robert Johnson of Specialized Operations Command, and Superintendent Katherine Stephenson from Intelligences Services, to launch a Hate Crime Awareness Campaign.

“The impact of hate crimes on our communities is powerful, destructive and deep. We commend Toronto Crime Stoppers and the Toronto Police Service for their continued efforts to aggressively expose and pursue any suspected incidents of hate-motivated behaviour, and we call on members of the public to bring hate crimes to light,” said Nick Migliore, Toronto Police Service Board.

The objective of the campaign is to help deter and eliminate acts of hate that are negatively impacting local communities. The campaign seeks to educate and encourage members of the community to report hate crimes and other forms of criminality to the police or anonymously through Toronto Crime Stoppers.

“As a community, when we remain silent, we are all victims – this campaign is impactful and generates thoughts to action to keep our communities safe. This proactive approach to create awareness on Hate Crime is a testament to improving the safety of the community we serve and works to empower a movement of a crime free Toronto,” said Sean Sportun, Chair, Toronto Crime Stoppers.

The awareness campaign consists of a variety of posters and a radio PSA. This initiative was made possible thanks to the continued partnership and support from the Toronto Police Service Board, the Toronto Police Service, the creative design team at The Community Agency and our community stakeholders.

“The impact of crime motivated by hate is far-reaching. It extends beyond the physical and emotional trauma suffered by the victim, affecting all members of the targeted community and beyond,” said Deputy Chief Robert Johnson. “Concerned citizens who see something and say something, whether by calling the police or making an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers, play an essential role in preventing and addressing crime in our city.”

“International conflicts have led to fears and tensions, and sometimes acts of discrimination and violence. Individuals who harbour prejudiced views feel emboldened or justified to express their biases,” said Superintendent Katherine Stephenson of Intelligence Services. “To better address the impact, we are asking the community to report these crimes to police so we can identify trends, provide community support, address public safety concerns and implement preventative measures.”