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

• Identification: Help you determine if what has happened to you is a hate crime and advise you on your next steps.
• Follow-through:
  
  • Contact you within three business days after the initial report
  • Stay in touch from the start to the finish of the investigation
  • Provide a direct phone number to call with questions
• Find help: At your request, connect you with other support organizations who can meet your specific needs.

Download a Core Response Team brochure for quick reference.

Report Your Experience

No activity is too minor to report. Hate activity in all its forms can affect the whole community. Even if you don't need help, reporting hate or bias activity helps others facing similar situations. You can call or email the Core Response Team.

If you believe a crime 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 a 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 to get help as you walk through 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 the 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

Report hate or bias activity to the Core Response Team.

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