Cities mark United Against Hate Week with cultural festivals, trainings, and more

By Brian Hendershot, Cal Cities Advocate managing editor

City officials and residents are coming together this week to reject hate and implicit bias as part of the annual United Against Hate Week, Oct. 18-24. Created by California local officials in 2018, the national movement encourages residents and cities to work together to build more inclusive, equitable communities.

Many local leaders — including in Alameda, Berkeley, Burbank, San Gabriel, and San Diego — have adopted proclamations in honor of the week. Some, like South San Francisco, released videos recognizing the week or shared how residents could show their support, as in the case of El Segundo. Others, such as Pinole, encouraged people to sign the United Against Hate pledge.

El Segundo is also commemorating the week with a cultural celebration filled with guest speakers, performances, booths, arts and crafts, a canned food drive, and more. Likewise, Pasadena and a broad group of local, state, and national partners held a regional Neighborfest that included family-friendly activities, food, music, and community resources that promoted unity and inclusion.

Similarly, El Cerrito hosted a sidewalk chalk art event. The festivities included a live professional drawing, music, and a story time for elementary school students. Mill Valley is working with community partners to distribute flyers and t-shirts, elevate local stories, and share book recommendations.

Culver City is leading a panel on systemic oppression and a look at the 2024 Los Angeles County Hate Crime Report, which documented record high reported hate crimes. It will also present a training on practical, accessible tools that help people show up with greater self-awareness, connection, and care.

Among other things, Redwood City invited teens to share messages of empathy on the Empathy Wall at the public library, created yard signs, and collaborated with community partners to present several events, including an all-ages Skate Against Hate outing. Other communities marked the week with screenings of Not In Our Town’s new film “Minnesota Neighbors,” wellness and civility events, unity walks, community forums and picnics, and art exhibitions.

United Against Hate Week, Oct. 18-24, is administered by Oakland-based organization Not In Our Town in partnership with CA vs Hate, LA vs Hate, and the CDSS Stop the Hate Initiative. Visit the campaign website to download resources and get ready for next year’s week of action!