DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – An anti-hate mural was unveiled on Monday in Oak Cliff, kicking off an effort by the City of Dallas and the FBI to create awareness around an increasing number of hate crimes at the local and national levels.
According to the FBI Dallas Office, hate crimes are the highest priority of the FBI’s civil rights program because of the devastating impact they have on families and communities. As part of its responsibility to uphold the civil rights of the American people, the FBI is taking a number of steps to combat hate crimes including investigative activity, law enforcement support, training and public outreach.
In the fall of 2021, the FBI launched a national media campaign with billboards, ads, and radio spots that built public awareness of hate crimes and encouraged crime reporting to law enforcement. Additionally, the Dallas Field Office coordinated advertising at Dallas Love Field, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, area gas stations, digital billboards, on AM and FM radio, and mobile/digital/web mediums.
Monday, the City of Dallas recognized October 3 as “FBI Dallas Hate Crimes Awareness Day” and public outreach momentum will continue by expanding local transit advertising via bus/rail wraps and unveiling two unique, community-centric murals in conjunction with the Mayor’s Anti-Hate Advisory Council, the Office of Arts & Culture — Community Arts Division in collaboration with Code Compliance for the Beautiful Communities initiative.
“The FBI defines a hate crime as a criminal offense against a person or property motivated in whole or in part by an offender’s bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity and we are charged to defend the civil rights of the communities we serve. We actively work with our law enforcement partners to investigate hate crimes and achieve justice for victims impacted by violence,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. “We will pursue individuals who commit violent, hateful acts against any member of our community.”
The artists chosen to interpret the FBI’s call to report hate crime to law enforcement demonstrated their close ties to the community and their distinctive designs. Today’s unveiling will be further recognized tonight with a citywide blue light show seen on Bank of America Plaza, Omni, One AT&T Plaza and Reunion Tower at dusk.
“Through this proclamation, we are acknowledging that hate is real. But so is love. We must use that love to educate others and continue to facilitate meaningful dialogue between people from all walks of life. And we must take clear actions and amplify messages that increase tolerance and understanding in Dallas. Together, we can fight hate, put public safety first, and enhance the vibrancy of all of our communities,” said Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson.
Victims and witnesses of any hate-related incident are encouraged to report the information to law enforcement. After a report is made, it is assessed by the FBI and then dedicated resources and specialized expertise are engaged to determine the best course of action for investigation and adjudication.
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