Hate Crime Reporting and Support

Hate crime in the UK is on the rise. Shining a spotlight on the issue has never been more important.

Hate crimes occur in many forms. They can be assault, harassment or abuse and can happen online or in person. All hate crimes are motivated by a prejudice towards a person’s race, sexual orientation, religion, disability or trans status. Despite much progress in changing societal attitudes, LGBT people still experience hate crimes at alarming rates.

Despite victims increasingly coming forward, more needs to be done to ensure the LGBT community are reporting incidents. YouGov data shows that four in five anti-LGBT hate crimes and incidents go unreported, with young people particularly reluctant to report their experiences to police. Reporting rates are increasing but still dangerously low. LGBT Foundation are working to increase awareness of hate crimes and encourage victims and witnesses to come forward.

At this website you can find information and advice on reporting hate crime:

https://lgbt.foundation/report

Orlando Against “Kill All Gays” Message On Digital Traffic Sign

May 17, 2023

In a disheartening incident that took place early Wednesday morning, a digital traffic sign near Lake Nona, Orlando, displayed a deeply disturbing anti-gay hate message. The Orlando Police Department (OPD) swiftly responded to the report, initiating an investigation into this appalling act of intolerance. As we delve into this incident, let us emphasize that such messages have no place in our society, and it is essential to shed light on the gravity of this issue and the importance of unity, acceptance, and inclusivity.

Reported just before 4 a.m., the altered sign at the intersection of Lake Nona Boulevard and Nemours Parkway displayed the shocking message, "KILL ALL GAYS." This act of vandalism was immediately brought to the attention of the OPD, who noted that the sign had been tampered with. The authorities have launched an active investigation to identify the perpetrators and hold them accountable for their hateful actions. 

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer swiftly condemned the incident, expressing his deep disappointment in the display of hate within the city. In a prepared statement, Mayor Dyer emphasized that hate has no place in Orlando and reiterated that this incident does not define the community. His words of reassurance were directed towards the LGBTQ+ residents and visitors of Orlando, affirming their value and emphasizing their rightful place within the city's fabric.

Mayor Dyer's statement sends a powerful message of unity and support, reminding everyone that Orlando stands strong in the face of hatred. It is essential to recognize the significance of such affirmations, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community, who continue to fight for acceptance and equality. By unequivocally stating that Orlando is a place where all individuals are respected and valued, the Mayor reaffirms the city's commitment to inclusivity.

The OPD's quick response and subsequent investigation are commendable. Acts of hate and discrimination must be met with swift and thorough investigations, ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice. By diligently pursuing this case, the OPD reinforces the message that hate crimes will not be tolerated, and the safety of all community members remains a top priority.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder that despite significant progress in promoting acceptance and equality, there are still individuals who harbor prejudice and ignorance. However, it is crucial not to allow such incidents to overshadow the progress made. Orlando's community is defined by its resilience, diversity, and unwavering commitment to inclusion. The support shown by Mayor Dyer and the OPD, along with the countless residents who stand against hate, demonstrates the strength of unity in combating intolerance.

The appearance of an anti-gay hate message on a digital traffic sign in Orlando is a distressing reminder of the work that remains in creating a world free from discrimination. However, it is heartening to witness the rapid response and firm condemnation of such acts by city officials, law enforcement, and the community at large. By standing united against hatred, Orlando reinforces its commitment to inclusivity and sends a powerful message of support to its LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. It is through dialogue, education, and unwavering advocacy that we can ensure a future where acts of discrimination are but distant memories, and acceptance reigns supreme.

Homophobic Rant by a “Karen in the wild” at Florida Starbucks Sparks Outrage

At a Starbucks located in Coral Gables, Florida, a customer unleashing a barrage of homophobic slurs at a lesbian couple, leaving witnesses appalled and calling for an end to such hate. Cassie Urry and her girlfriend, Lorrin Skrbec, were visiting from Toledo for a much-anticipated cruise to the Bahamas. However, their stop at the coffee shop turned into a distressing encounter. Urry sensed an uncomfortable atmosphere and soon discovered that all eyes were on a particular customer, who began spewing racist remarks and slurs targeting Asian patrons.

Urry pulled out her phone to capture the incident on video. The resulting footage, which has since gone viral on TikTok, shows the woman, dubbed "Karen in the wild," directing her vitriol at the camera. She launches into a series of baseless accusations, claiming that lesbianism is inherently linked to child abuse.

 

@sass.curry

Interaction with this lovely lady in Miami

♬ original sound - Cass

While the incident at Starbucks was undoubtedly distressing for Urry and Skrbec, it also serves as a stark reminder that homophobia continues to persist. The couple's calm response exemplifies the need to confront hate with resilience and dignity. The incident prompted Starbucks to take immediate action, with the company spokesperson emphasizing their zero-tolerance policy toward discrimination and affirming their commitment to maintaining an inclusive environment for both employees and customers.

Urry and Skrbec managed to focus on their cruise and put the negativity behind them. However, the aftermath of the incident lingers as a painful reminder of the work still needed to eradicate homophobia and create a society that embraces love, respect, and equality for all.