Celebrities join coalition to combat hate in LA County

Actress Alyssa Milano (left) and stand-up comedian Tig Notaro. Photos from LA vs Hate

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles County anti-hate program Thursday announced a collaborative effort composed of celebrities — including actress Alyssa Milano, NBA player Paul George and comedienne Tig Notaro – to combat hate and promote unity.

The LA vs Hate program was launched by the LA County Commission on Human Relations in 2019. The community-centered program is designed to mobilize residents to unite against and report hate. The new collaborative effort,  LA vs Hate Unity Coalition, features public figures from the arts, sports and entertainment industries.

“We are launching the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition because we believe that public figures can play a powerful role in creating positive change and spreading awareness of the resources LA vs Hate has to offer all residents,” Robin Toma, executive director of the Los Angeles Commission on Human Relations, said in a statement.

“This coalition provides a unique space for individuals from diverse backgrounds to lend their unique lived experiences as experiences, as well as their power and privilege, to support the unity of all our communities against hate, hostility and systemic discrimination.”

Reported hate crimes in LA County grew 18 percent from 790 to 929 in 2022, the second largest number in more than 20 years, according to the County of LA Commission on Human Relations.

“I’m joining the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition because the rates of hate are rising to dangerous levels and I want to inspire positive change in LA, where I and my family call home,” Milano said. “I’m honored to stand against hate today, join LA vs Hate in their efforts to stymie the spread of hate and to use my influence to help create a more inclusive and kinder community for all to live in peace.”

George, a former Clippers player who was born in Palmdale, said it’s important to push back against the rise of hate.

“I look forward to working with this coalition to support communities who have been targeted for hate and to spread positive messages of solidarity and unity,” George said. “No matter who you are and where you come from, you should feel safe and welcome in Los Angeles.”
Nitaro, a standup comedienne and actress, said, “I’m joining the LA vs Hate Unity Coalition because why on earth would anyone not?”

Other celebrities joining the coalition are actress Chelsea Rendon, musician Nathan Davis Jr.  and singer-songwriter and music producer KC Porter.

The LA vs Hate Unity Coalition will spread a message of unity against hate during United Against Hate Week, the annual statewide call for local civic action to put a stop to the spread of hate, the organization said. United Against Hate Week will start Sept. 21.

The LA vs Hate program includes a free, confidential and anonymous hotline for victims and witnesses to report any hate incident or hate crime via online reporting to LavsHate.org or by calling 2-1-1 in LA County. (CNS)

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