Illinois is confronting a sharp surge in hate crimes, which have risen by 125 percent since 2021. Authorities say the majority of these incidents are fueled by bias against race, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The escalation has prompted state officials to renew their call for vigilance and community action. Residents who experience or witness acts of hate are encouraged to report them at ILStopHate.org or call 1-877-458-HATE. The state underscores that swift reporting helps connect victims with vital support and keeps communities safer. Efforts continue to address root causes and foster unity across Illinois.
“At this moment in time, when some are influencing or condoning hateful violence and rhetoric, we are encouraging Illinoisans to take action by reporting all acts of hate,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Help Stop Hate not only empowers impacted individuals to break the cycle of silence and seek specialized support, but it also helps us foster a safer, more inclusive Illinois.”
“The surge in vitriol, violence and hate-fueled acts in Illinois is truly distressing. It’s incumbent upon every Illinoisan to make it clear: hate has no home in Illinois,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. “Help Stop Hate is a vital tool to empower our communities by encouraging people to speak up, report what they see, and stand together against intolerance in all its forms.”
“Illinois stands firm in its promise to uphold dignity and respect for all,” said IDHR Director Jim Bennett. “When our communities are affected by hate, we respond with action. Help Stop Hate empowers individuals to heal and reclaim their safety.”
“Hate of any kind causes real harm, not only to the individual who has been targeted, but to entire communities,” said CDHC Executive Director Elana Kahn. “And bigotry never sticks to one community; when it becomes acceptable to target people because of who they are, none of us are safe. Reporting is an important first step, to help get support and influence real change for a better Illinois.”
