In a citywide effort to raise awareness about hate crime safety, the City of West Hollywood and the will host a Walk Against Hate on Friday at San Vicente Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard.
A rally will kick-off the event at 7 p.m., which will be followed by a march at 7:30 p.m. to remember those who have been victimized by hate. In the event of rain, the rally will be held in the West Hollywood Park Auditorium, 647 N. San Vicente Blvd.
Speakers at the rally will include West Hollywood Sheriff’s Captain Kelley Fraser, West Hollywood Mayor John Duran and West Hollywood Councilwoman Abbe Land.
“We have a long history in West Hollywood of standing up against hate,” said Land. “Whenever anyone is attacked in our community, it is unacceptable. Hate crimes are designed not just to harm the victim, but to terrorize entire communities. We won't stand for it. That's why we will remain visible, continue to work with our law enforcement teams and community members, and encourage anyone who's been a victim of any type of crime to report it.”
In addition to the Walk Against Hate, the City of West Hollywood and the LA County Sheriff’s Department have created the following tips to help make West Hollywood a Hate-Free City:
- Learn neighborhood danger zones and avoid them: dark parking lots, alleys, walk ways, along tall shrubs, walls and fences.
- Move away from unsafe situations.
- Run! Scream No! Call 9-1-1.
- Carry a whistle.
- Be extra aware when leaving lesbian, gay and transgendered bars, restaurants, organizations and hangouts. Avoid walking alone when leaving late.
- Know Before You Go. If you go home with someone you don't know, first introduce them to friends, bartenders or others you know. Exchange names, phone numbers.
- Remember drinking and partying affects your judgment: Play Safe!
For more information or to RSVP, please call Bonnie Smith at 323-848-6371. For the deaf and hard of hearing, please call 323-848-6496.
