Austin ADL Instrumental in Hate Crimes Initiative

Date: November 16, 2010

City of Austin leaders, reacting to an alleged hate crime in the community, sought out ADL Austin to develop the community’s first-ever hate crime initiative. ADL responded by designing a comprehensive plan for Austin that includes recommendations for law enforcement training, legislative action and community education.  

The plan calls for a hate crimes task force to foster the exchange of information, build relationships, increase awareness of sensitive issues and create a reaction process that brings together law enforcement and affected community members. A wide range of community leaders enthusiastically endorsed ADL's proposal and the first meeting of the taskforce has been scheduled. 

The Austin City Council  also endorsed the initiative with a resolution passed November 18.  The Resolution says, "The City of Austin is in full support of and shall be an active participant in a multi-pronged, comprehensive hate crimes initiative to foster a safe and welcoming community by building public infrastructure, awareness, and sensitivity related to hate crimes." 

Austin City Council Member Randi Shade spoke highly of ADL's contribution to the city's effort. "The City of Austin is fortunate to have the Austin ADL's expertise, support and leadership as we implement a multi-pronged approach to addressing hate crimes," she said. 

The first meeting of the proposed task force is scheduled for December 15 and is convened by ADL, Austin City Council Members Sheryl Cole, Laura Morrison and Randi Shade, and the Community Justice Council under the leadership of County Attorney David Escamilla, and District Attorney Rosemary Lehmberg.