Celebrating Pride Month: Our Commitment to LGBTQI+ Communities
This June, the U.S. Department of Justice proudly honors the resilience, courage, and contributions of LGBTQI+ individuals across the nation, and affirms our unwavering commitment to supporting the rights of LGBTQI+ people to live openly and proudly.
The Department’s role in safeguarding LGBTQI+ civil rights through hate crimes enforcement and prevention is pivotal.
Protecting LGBTQI+ Communities from Hate
Hate crimes inflict deep, lasting scars on victims, their families, and entire communities. They undermine a sense of safety and belonging.
The Department is committed to decisive action against hate-motivated attacks and threats targeting LGBTQI+ individuals. Alongside prosecuting perpetrators, we support organizations aiding victims and educate the public about these dangers.
- Hate Crime Conviction: We secured a conviction at trial in a hate crime based on gender identity, holding a South Carolina man accountable for the murder of Dime Doe, a Black transgender woman.
- Church Protection: We prosecuted an Ohio man for attempting to burn down a church planning to host drag shows; he was sentenced to 18 years in prison.
- Death Threats Prosecution: We prosecuted a Maryland man for making death threats against an LGBTQI+ advocacy group; he was sentenced to two years in prison.
Educating the Public Through Outreach and Training
Year-round, we conduct outreach to spread awareness about protecting LGBTQI+ communities from hate crimes and violence. This includes hosting meetings, webinars, and training sessions. Recent actions and initiatives include:
- United Against Hate Summit: A discussion in Idaho focusing on civil rights initiatives impacting the local LGBTQI+ community.
- Webinar Series: Targeted at juvenile justice professionals, law enforcement, and school communities to understand youth hate crimes and develop prevention strategies.
- National Meetings: Collaborations between law enforcement and civil rights leaders to foster awareness and action.
Supporting LGBTQI+ Victims and Survivors of Hate Crimes
The Department prioritizes funding projects that increase services, resources, and access for LGBTQI+ individuals. Noteworthy projects include:
- Pride Justice Resource Center: Offering training and technical assistance to improve outcomes for LGBTQ2S+ youth in juvenile justice systems.
- LGBT Community Center of PA: Partnering with GLO-Harrisburg to support LGBTQ+ young people of color.
- Milwaukee LGBTQ+ Community Center: Providing mental health counseling, case management, support groups, safety planning, advocacy services, and economic resources to survivors of gender-based violence.
Additional Resources
If you are the victim of a hate crime or witness one, report it to local authorities by dialing 9-1-1 or contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).
Learn more about our efforts to protect LGBTQI+ rights, including new resources and funding opportunities:
- Working with LGBTQ Communities
- FY 2024 Funding Opportunities to Combat Hate Crimes Fact Sheet
- Serving LGBTQ Survivors of Violence
- FBI Civil Rights Program
- Civil Rights Division LGBTQI+ Rights
- Voices from LGBTQI+ Community Members at DOJ
Conclusion
The well-being of LGBTQI+ communities is a top priority for the Department. By fostering inclusivity, understanding, respect, and acceptance, we can move closer to achieving true equality and justice for everyone.
Happy Pride Month!