The Core Response Team operates as a subcommittee of the Human Rights Commission (HRC) to assist with concerns related to hate or bias activity. Specially trained staff are available to help you in the following ways:

How We Can Help

Identification

• Determine if it’s a Hate Crime: We can help you assess whether what has happened to you qualifies as a hate crime and advise you on the next steps to take.

Follow-through

1. Timely Contact: We will contact you within three business days after your initial report.
2. Ongoing Communication: We will stay in touch from the beginning to the end of the investigation.
3. Direct Support: You will receive a direct phone number to call with any questions you may have.

Find Help

• Connections to Support: At your request, we can connect you with other support organizations that can meet your specific needs.

You can also download a Core Response Team brochure for quick reference.

Report Your Experience

No incident is too minor to report. Hate activity in all its forms can impact the entire community. Even if you do not need assistance, reporting hate or bias activity helps others facing similar situations. You can reach out to the Core Response Team by phone or email.

• If you believe a crime has occurred, call the non-emergency police line at 503-588-6123.
• If the crime is in progress and there is a direct threat to life or property, immediately call 911.

Hate Crime Definition

A hate crime occurs when one person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly subjects another person to offensive physical contact, physical injury, or threats of physical injury, or property damage or threats of property damage based on the person's membership in one of the following groups:

• Race
• Color
• National origin
• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity
• Religion

A hate crime may also target a person’s family. Hate crimes should be reported to the Salem Police Department. You can also notify the Core Response Team for assistance throughout the process.

Hate or Bias Activity Definition

While a hate crime generally involves an act of intimidation, hate or bias activity includes:

• Offensive language, actions, or symbols
• Written or verbal threats
• Bullying
• Abusive phone calls, emails, or messages

Hate or bias activity is based on a person's membership in one of the following groups:

• Race
• Color
• National origin
• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity
• Religion
• Sex
• Marital or familial status
• Age
• Disability
• Source of income

You are encouraged to report any hate or bias activity to the Core Response Team. Your voice matters, and together we can work towards a safer and more inclusive community.